INCARCERATED PERSON ORIENTATION & RULES

Overview of the Manual

  • The manual addresses commonly asked questions and concerns from incarcerated persons in custody.

  • Spanish versions of the internal regulations are available on request.

Introduction

  • Goals of the Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Department:

    • Provide a safe and secure environment.

    • Promote positive behavior through direct supervision in detention facilities.

  • Humane Treatment:

    • Incarcerated persons will be treated fairly and impartially. Compliance with facility regulations is expected.

Court Information

  • Court Notifications:

    • Staff will inform incarcerated persons about their court appearances.

  • Attire for Court:

    • Jail-issued clothing is mandatory except during jury trials.

  • Timing for Court Readiness:

    • A.M. Court: Be ready by 0600 hours.

    • P.M. Court: Be ready by 1100 hours.

  • Release Process:

    • Procedures for release must be followed post-court orders and will happen typically in the same day.

    • Transport arrangements are permitted with up to three free phone calls.

Housing Unit Rules

  • Access and Movement:

    • Only assigned individuals may be in specific housing units or cells.

    • Restrictions apply to visiting other incarcerated persons, only permitted in designated areas.

  • Prohibitions:

    • No bedding or mattresses in common areas, and no modifications to cell infrastructure allowed.

    • Confiscation of any attached items deemed as contraband.

Incarcerated Person Forms

  • Available Forms:

    • Request Forms: Used to request items/services. Also known as "kites."

    • Medical Request Form: A blue form for medical care requests; submitted directly to medical staff.

    • Visitor Approval Form: Electronic form for visitor approval.

    • Grievance Form: Used for reporting conditions of confinement.

Incarcerated Workers

  • Dismissals from Work Positions:

    • Dismissed workers must wait 30 days to apply for another position without supervisor approval.

  • Work Assignments:

    • Sentenced persons are required to work; unsentenced may volunteer.

  • Work Regulations:

    • Strict rules on behavior, including prohibition of smoking and carrying unauthorized items.

Incarcerated Person Funds

  • Funding Procedures:

    • Funds can only be added through the Touch-Pay System.

    • Cash and checks sent by mail will be returned.

  • Account Management:

    • Clear rules on managing and accessing funds post-booking.

Release of Funds & Property

  • Specific instructions on how incarcerated persons may release funds and personal property to designated individuals.

  • Clothing and personal property will not be stored by the Sheriff’s Department.

Consular Notification

  • Foreign nationals can request notification to their consulate, which may assist them.

Classification

  • Classification System Goals:

    • Safely assign incarcerated persons based on various criteria (e.g., gender, charges, health needs).

  • Automatic reviews and individual requests for classification changes are permitted.

Incarcerated Persons' Rights

  • Fundamental Rights Include:

    • Fair treatment, religious freedom, health care access, and communication with family and attorneys.

  • Rights can be modified if behavior endangers safety and security.

Pregnant Incarcerated Persons' Rights

  • Healthcare and Support:

    • Information and provisions for prenatal care and childbirth.

    • Opportunity to have support during labor.

    • Privacy and support options for breastfeeding.

Expected Behavior

  • Compliance Expectations:

    • Adherence to rules, respect for others, and personal hygiene standards are mandatory.

Law Library Services

  • Legal research services provided by trained staff and attorneys.

Correspondence Rules

  • Details regarding incoming and outgoing mail, limits, and items considered contraband.

Commissary Access

  • Incarcerated persons can order specific items but cannot trade or stockpile goods.

Disciplinary Procedures

  • Types of Violations:

    • Classified into major and minor acts with associated disciplinary actions.

  • The formal and informal discipline allowing for appeals and hearings.

Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA)

  • Zero-Tolerance Policy Overview:

    • Establishes protections against sexual abuse with clear reporting processes.

Educational & Substance Abuse Programs

  • Opportunities for participation in various educational and rehabilitation programs.

Sanitation and Hygiene Responsibilities

  • Incarcerated persons are expected to maintain a clean living area, with specific hygiene standards enforced.