THE EVOLUTION OF LOS ANGELES COUNTY SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT'S JAILS

Part III: Custody Operations

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Los Angeles County, known for its vast cultural diversity and sprawling urban landscape, also has a significant history regarding its correctional facilities. The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department (LASD) has overseen the development and operation of its jails, marking a complex and evolving journey.

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Early History: The Beginnings

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The history of Los Angeles County jails under the purview of the LASD dates back to the 19th century. The earliest jails were rudimentary, reflecting the limited resources and understanding of incarceration at the time. These facilities were often nothing more than a few rooms designed to hold individuals temporarily.

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Expansion in the 20th Century

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As Los Angeles grew, so did its inmate population, prompting the expansion of the jail system. The 20th century saw significant developments, both in terms of infrastructure and operational philosophy. Today, custody operations are commanded by an Assistant Sheriff. It has two divisions, each commanded by a chief. Each chief is assisted by two commanders, while the actual jail facilities are commanded by a captain.

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LASD maintains the largest jail system in the United States, with inmate spread around the following facilities:

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Inmate Reception Center (IRC)

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IRC has a pivotal history in the management and processing of inmates within the county's jail system. Established to centralize and streamline the intake and classification of individuals entering the county's jails, the IRC plays a crucial role in determining the appropriate housing and treatment of inmates based on their needs and security levels. Over the years, the IRC has undergone several upgrades and expansions to cope with the increasing inmate population and the evolving demands of modern correctional practices. These changes include the implementation of advanced technologies for identification and record-keeping, enhanced medical and mental health screening facilities, and improved procedures to ensure the safety and efficient processing of inmates. The IRC's development reflects the broader trends in correctional management, focusing on efficient operations while addressing the complex needs of a diverse inmate population.

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Men's Central Jail (MCJ)

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MCJ has a storied history reflective of the evolving challenges and changes in the realm of incarceration. Opened in 1963 in downtown Los Angeles, this facility was designed to address the growing inmate population and represented a shift towards larger, centralized jails. Men's Central Jail, thus, stands as a complex symbol of the challenges faced in urban incarceration, balancing security needs with the rights and welfare of its inmate population.

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North County Correctional Facility (NCCF)

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Opened in 1987, the NCCF is located within the Pitchess Detention Center in Castaic, California. It was designed to alleviate the overcrowding issues that plagued older facilities in the county. NCCF stands out for its unique architecture and operational philosophy, which was considered innovative at the time of its construction. The facility adopted a “podular” design, intended to enhance security and inmate supervision, and reduce violent incidents. Over the years, NCCF has housed a large and diverse inmate population and has been involved in various initiatives aimed at improving inmate welfare and rehabilitation. Like many correctional facilities, it has faced challenges, including managing inmate violence and addressing public scrutiny over conditions and treatment of inmates. NCCF's development over the years also reflects broader trends in correctional facility management and the evolving approach of LASD towards incarceration and rehabilitation.

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Pitchess Detention Center (PDC) North, South and East Facilities

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These facilities, each an independent jail command, also located in Castaic, California, are a significant part of the county's correctional system history. It became a crucial component of a larger complex that included several other detention facilities, each serving different inmate populations and security levels. Over the years, the facilities have witnessed various changes and improvements, reflecting broader shifts in correctional philosophies. These include efforts to enhance inmate rehabilitation, improve living conditions, and address security concerns. The facilities have played a pivotal role in housing inmates, providing essential services, and implementing programs aimed at reducing recidivism. The North and South Facilities are fully functional, while the East Facility is partially opened.

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Twin Towers Correctional Facility

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Twin Towers Correctional Facility (TTCF) has a notable history that reflects the evolving landscape of incarceration in urban America. This facility was conceived as a response to the severe overcrowding and outdated conditions in the older jails in Los Angeles County. Architecturally distinct with its twin-tower structure, it is one of the world's largest jail complexes. The facility was designed with advanced security and management systems, intending to offer a more humane and efficient approach to incarceration. However, since its inception, Twin Towers has faced its share of challenges, including managing a significant population of inmates with mental health issues. It has become a focal point for debates around criminal justice reform, particularly regarding the treatment of mentally ill inmates. Over the years, the LASD has implemented various reforms at Twin Towers, aiming to improve conditions and address the complex needs of its various inmate population.

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Century Regional Detention Center (CRDF)

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The Century Regional Detention Center (CRDF), located in Lynwood, California, was initially designed as a facility for male inmates. However, it underwent a significant transition when it was repurposed to serve exclusively as a women's jail. This change was part of a broader strategy to address overcrowding and improve conditions across Los Angeles County jails. The facility, often in the spotlight due to its high-profile detainees, has faced scrutiny over the years for issues related to overcrowding, inmate treatment, and health care. Despite these challenges, CRDF has also been a site for various reform efforts, including programs focused on mental health, education, and reintegration, reflecting the evolving approach of the LASD towards incarceration and rehabilitation.

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Mira Loma Detention Facility

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The Mira Loma Detention Facility originally opened in the late 1990s. Mira Loma was initially established as a medium-security facility primarily designed to alleviate overcrowding in other county jails. Located in Lancaster, California, this facility was distinctive for its location in the Antelope Valley, far from the central Los Angeles area. Over the years, Mira Loma Detention Facility underwent several changes, including expansions and renovations to improve living conditions and security. It was also involved in a significant shift in focus when plans were made to convert it into a residential center for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detainees, reflecting a growing intersection between local law enforcement and federal immigration policies. However, this plan faced community opposition and legal challenges, highlighting the complexities and controversies surrounding detention practices in contemporary America. Today, Mira Loma is currently not operational but open.

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Supporting Units

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To manage and communicate effectively within its large jail operations, the LASD operates several support bureaus, each with specific roles:

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1. Custody Support Services Bureau: Provides administrative support, conducts research, performs audits, reviews critical incidents, and develops policies. It comprises specialized teams for operations, data and force analysis, inspections, policy review, incident review, research and planning, and the Correctional Innovative Technologies Unit.
2. ?Population Management Bureau (PMB): Established in response to overcrowding and the challenges of Public Safety Realignment, the PMB manages the inmate population. It focuses on educational and rehabilitation programs to reduce recidivism, with units dedicated to classification, housing, post-release planning, community transition, and alternatives to custody, among others.
3. Custody Compliance & Sustainability Bureau (CCSB): Ensures compliance with legal settlements, including DOJ, Rosas, and Johnson lawsuits. It is involved in assessing compliance, managing inmate deaths, and the Jail Mental Health Evaluation Team, which provides care for inmates with mental illnesses.
4. Custody Training & Standards Bureau (CTSB): Responsible for training over 4,000 custodial personnel, reviewing use of force incidents, and maintaining standards in custodial operations. It includes specialized units like the Custody Force Response Team and De-escalation Verbal Resolution Training unit.
5. Food Services: Manages the preparation and distribution of meals across the jail system, providing approximately 70,000 meals daily.
6. Inmate Services Bureau (ISB): Aims to enhance jail security and inmate rehabilitation through vocational, academic, and life skills education and support programs.
7. Access to Care Bureau: Focuses on ensuring inmates have access to medical, mental health, and dental care, coordinating healthcare services, and ensuring compliance with healthcare standards.

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Each of these bureaus plays a vital role in the smooth functioning, compliance, and humane management of the LASD's jail system.

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The history of the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department's jails is a mirror of the broader changes in societal attitudes towards incarceration. From rudimentary holding cells in the 1800s to modern complexes grappling with complex social and health issues, these facilities have evolved significantly. The LASD's journey continues as it navigates the challenges of the 21st century, striving to balance security, justice, and rehabilitation in one of the most populous regions in the United States.

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UNVEILING THE HISTORY AND EVOLUTION OF THE LOS ANGELES SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT

Part I: A Brief History

Part II: Patrol Operations

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