San Bernardino County-Central Detention Center (CDC)

For over 20 years, the CDC has functioned as the primary booking facility for police and sheriff stations in the East Valley area. During its peak, the facility accommodated up to 850 federal inmates daily. Currently, CDC houses over 200 federal inmates and more than 600 county inmates, processing over 20,000 inmates annually. The U.S. Marshal’s Service utilizes the CDC as a West Coast hub, facilitating the transportation and housing of federal inmates from across the United States and the Pacific Rim Islands. Federal grants and contract revenues have funded significant retrofitting and upgrades to the facility.

Inmates at CDC have access to a variety of programs, including opportunities to earn a high school diploma and participate in substance abuse intervention programs. Additionally, the facility hosts several juvenile programs aimed at supporting at-risk youth. The staff at CDC remain dedicated to adapting to the evolving demands of the correctional environment while serving the citizens of San Bernardino County. Their commitment ensures that the Central Detention Center continues to play a vital role in both the local and federal justice systems.

After processing, inmates are assigned to a housing area based on classification. Compliance with jail rules typically results in a lower classification and more privileges, while rule violations or additional charges lead to a higher classification and fewer privileges. Inmates serving as trustees within the jail undertake various tasks, including cooking, laundry, and commissary management, often receiving minimal compensation or sentence reduction for their services.

The jail is designed with "pods," featuring a large common area with affixed tables and attached seats, and individual cells typically on two levels. Inmates spend certain times in their cells and other times congregating in the pod for activities like playing cards, games, reading, or watching television. Movement outside the pod, such as trips to the commissary, library, or recreation area, occurs under the constant supervision of unarmed correctional officers. The environment in the county jail is considered less stressful than that of a prison because the sentences are much shorter.

The jail 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.