CDCR-Puerta La Cruz Conservation Camp #14

You can support your loved ones at Puerta La Cruz Camp #14 on InmateAid, if you have any immediate questions contact the facility directly at 760-782-3547.

Puerta La Cruz Camp #14 is a minimum-security facility under CDCR supervision, this camp plays a crucial role in supporting government agencies during emergency responses to wildfires, floods, and other natural or man-made disasters. Additionally, camp crews contribute to park maintenance, assist with flood mitigation through sandbagging, and participate in reforestation projects. Participation in the Conservation (Fire) Camp Program is entirely voluntary for incarcerated individuals. Those who choose to volunteer must meet specific eligibility criteria aimed at ensuring public safety. These include avenues for criminal record expungement, creating new pathways for employment, and aiding in their successful reintegration into society.

Puerta La Cruz Camp #14, jointly operated by CDCR and CAL FIRE, serves as a vital resource for fire suppression primarily in San Diego, Imperial, and Riverside Counties, although it undertakes assignments across the state as needed. Established in 1957, PLC initially housed male inmates alongside CDCR and CAL FIRE staff. However, in May 1986, it transitioned into an all-female inmate camp. Until October 2005, administrative oversight was held by the Sierra Conservation Center (SCC), after which the California Institution for Women (CIW) assumed control of PLC, Rainbow, and the Malibu Conservation Camps.

Incarcerated participants at PLC engage in various activities, including crafting rain sticks, plaques, clocks, and wooden signs as part of hobby craft initiatives. When not engaged in firefighting duties, they undertake conservation and community service projects, with project selection falling under CAL FIRE's purview.

Under the supervision of CAL FIRE personnel, PLC crews contribute significantly to conservation efforts across multiple locations, including the Anza Borrego Desert State Park, Palomar County Park, Cal Trans, and various municipal entities such as the City of San Diego and Poway. Additionally, PLC teams collaborate with organizations like the La Jolla Indian Reservation, Naval Training Base SERE, San Diego University, United States Forest Service, Warner Springs School District, and San Diego Wild Animal Park.

Their tasks encompass a wide range of activities, from ongoing projects within designated parks to year-round fire defense measures and assistance during the wet season, such as sandbagging at local fire stations in San Diego County to mitigate flood risks. Through their participation in these initiatives, PLC participants contribute positively to both environmental conservation and community welfare efforts in the region.

The camp offers a phone program for outbound calls only, with inmates unable to receive incoming calls. Accepting collect calls can be expensive, sometimes exceeding $10 per call. Alternatively, setting up an account through a third-party phone company may entail high fees per minute of usage. Click here for discounts on inmate calls, especially if the communication with your inmate is frequent. It's important to remember that all phone calls are recorded, and discussing sensitive legal matters over these lines is discouraged.

Books and magazines ordered for inmates must come directly from the publisher. This policy ensures that the items are new, untampered, and comply with the facility's regulations. The Jail enforces this rule to prevent the introduction of contraband or prohibited materials. By restricting orders to publishers, the facility can better maintain security and control over the content entering the institution. Any books or magazines not received directly from the publisher will be rejected and not delivered to the inmate. You may, however, send letters and selfies to inmates with this easy-to-use app, packages starting at only $8.00.

Inmate workers are chosen based on conduct and cooperation with staff. Participation in the community service program can sometimes reduce sentences. Commissary is available weekly, with orders submitted via kiosk two days in advance. On holidays, there may be increased spending limits. Upon receiving commissary items, inmates must present their ID, check their order, and sign for it in the presence of the commissary employee. Indigent inmates are provided with all essential basic hygiene items including USPS stamps and writing materials.