Jail Cell, TFP File Photo The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) announced the launch of an investigation into conditions at two California prison f
The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) announced the launch of an investigation into conditions at two California prison facilities operated by the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR): the Central California Women’s Facility in Chowchilla and the California Institution for Women in Chino. The investigation aims to assess whether CDCR adequately protects incarcerated individuals at these facilities from sexual abuse by correctional staff.
After a thorough review of public information and stakeholder input, the DOJ found substantial cause to begin the inquiry. The investigation will focus on whether individuals at these facilities are being safeguarded from sexual abuse, a constitutional requirement for those in custody.
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“No woman incarcerated in a jail or prison should face sexual abuse by staff members who are supposed to protect them,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the DOJ’s Civil Rights Division. She emphasized that women in prison retain their civil and constitutional rights and should be treated with respect. “California must ensure that it meets its constitutional obligations to protect incarcerated individuals from sexual abuse,” Clarke added.
U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert for the Eastern District of California acknowledged longstanding concerns about physical safety in California women’s prisons, which have been highlighted by media reports, state audits, and advocacy efforts. “This investigation will address these concerns and assess whether California is fulfilling its constitutional duties,” said Talbert.
U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada for the Central District of California echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that sexual misconduct in prisons is intolerable and that his office, alongside the Civil Rights Division, will thoroughly investigate the conditions at the two facilities.
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Over the past two years, hundreds of private lawsuits have been filed by women incarcerated at the Central California Women’s Facility, alleging sexual abuse by officers. These claims include inappropriate groping during searches, genital rubbing, and instances of forcible rape. A state trial involving a former correctional officer accused of multiple sexual assaults at the facility is set to begin this week. Additionally, a civil lawsuit filed by 21 women incarcerated at the California Institution for Women details further allegations, including rape, groping, oral copulation, and threats of violence from 2014 to 2020.
Reports suggest that some correctional staff sought sexual favors in exchange for contraband and privileges, and some of the accused officers were responsible for handling sexual abuse complaints. In March, a state working group released a report highlighting cultural deficiencies within the CDCR, such as an inadequate reporting process and lack of accountability for staff.
The DOJ’s investigation, conducted under the Civil Rights of Institutionalized Persons Act, will examine systemic violations of incarcerated individuals’ rights. The DOJ has notified California state officials of the investigation but has not yet reached any conclusions.
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The DOJ’s Civil Rights Division, in collaboration with the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices for the Eastern and Central Districts of California, is leading the investigation. Individuals with relevant information are encouraged to contact the DOJ by phone at 1-888-392-9490 or by email at Community.CAWomensPrisons@usdoj.gov.
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