Sonoma County Sierra Youth Center

County Juvenile

Last Updated: March 24, 2025
Address
538 Eliza Way, Santa Rosa, CA 95409
County
Sonoma
Phone
707-537-6306
Fax
707-537-6296

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Sonoma County Sierra Youth Center is for County Juvenile offenders have not been sentenced yet and are detained here until their case is heard.

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Satellite View of Sonoma County Sierra Youth Center

You can support your loved ones at Sonoma County Sierra Youth Center on InmateAid, if you have any immediate questions contact the facility directly at 707-537-6306.

The Sonoma County Sierra Youth Center is a medium to low-security detention center located at 538 Eliza Way Santa Rosa, CA that is operated locally by the Juvenile Justice Department and holds youths awaiting the determination of punishment for the crimes of which they are accused. Most of the adolescents are here for less than two years.

The juvenile justice system differs from the adult system, focusing on rehabilitation and recognizing the developmental differences in juveniles. It aims to protect both the child and the public and helps juveniles become productive adults.

Juveniles are detained if they pose a threat, may miss court, or violate court orders. Parental involvement is crucial for effective supervision and rehabilitation.

Key differences in terminology include "taken into custody" instead of "arrest" and "supervision" instead of "probation." Referrals usually come from law enforcement, and an intake social worker decides the juvenile's placement. An inquiry can lead to dismissal, corrective action, or court involvement.

The process includes a plea hearing, possible evaluations, a pre-trial conference, a fact-finding hearing, and a dispositional hearing to determine the case's outcome. Parents may need to cover associated costs.

Sierra Youth Center originally began in 1979 as the Sonoma County Adolescent Program designed to be a ranch/camp for female juvenile offenders ages 12-18. Shortly after the program began, it was clear that it would not be cost effective to operate due to the low population of female offenders. In 1981, it was determined that the needs of male juvenile offenders ages 12-16 were not being addressed by Sonoma County Juvenile Probation and the Adolescent Program became a ranch/ camp for male and female offenders. As the juvenile crime rate continued to grow in this County, Probation searched for innovative ways to hold youth accountable without having to use incarceration. Sierra Youth Center designed one of the first weekend work crew programs for juveniles in the nation combining juveniles on probation and Sierra residents. As Sierra worked to increase its level of success with the residents, the program added an aftercare component that provides support, structure and accountability to juveniles and their families during the transition home. Similar to national trends, Sonoma County’s female population has continued to grow and in the summer of 2006, the program converted to a gender-responsive adolescent female program.

Program Description

The Sonoma County Sierra Youth Center (SYC) is designed to provide a local placement for adolescent females, adjudicated by the Juvenile Court. SYC is one of the few gender- responsive residential programs in the State for female youth. The program provides interventions aimed at reducing risk behaviors and developing healthier skills and abilities. The program's goal is to promote a resident's positive return to her family and community. The length of stay varies from 6 to 12 months, depending on the severity of the adolescent’s offense and her progress through the program. The aftercare component provides an additional 6 to 12 months to work closely with the family to ensure a successful return to the community.

Program Components
  • Education: Educational progress is a priority for each resident. Residents attend Sierra's Hood Mountain School, which provides intensive, individualized attention at an on-site classroom. To help residents succeed in this area, SYC has a tutoring program Monday-Friday. In addition to core classes, residents receive yoga instruction, training through the Assistance Dog Institute and art classes, which include the mural project. Residents who excel academically are able to attend the local Junior College.

  • Therapy: The SYC program offers group and individual counseling. Weekly parents' support groups are provided, and residents participate in weekly NA meetings on the unit. Residents also receive individual drug and alcohol counseling, and may receive specialized therapy for mental health needs. United Against Sexual Assault facilitates healing and promotes the prevention of violence by providing education and counseling services. Restorative Resources works with residents to understand the impact of and begin making amends for their behavior. Residents also participate in weekly Girl's Circle groups to build self-esteem, compassion and connectivity.

  • Recreational and educational activities:Residents have the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities to expose them to healthy alternatives and cultural experiences. These may include ski trips, theater outings, completion of a "ropes" course, hiking, swimming, sports events, and Girl Scouts.

  • Work Crew: Residents earn money toward their restitution by working in the county parks. They learn new skills and provide a valuable service to the community. SYC extends this service to other juvenile probationers who need to earn restitution money to compensate the victim of their offense.

Inmate Locator

Juvenile facilities overseen by Sonoma County do not publish the names of the offenders housed in their facility. As such, there is no public forum for this information.

Visitation Information

Visitation at the county or regional juvenile facility is restricted to immediate family members only, including mothers, fathers, sisters, and brothers. The visitation guidelines are stringent, and it is advisable to contact the facility staff to ascertain specific limitations. For information on visitation schedules, visiting room regulations, and other relevant details about your visit, please contact 707-537-6306. The facility staff will provide comprehensive guidance to ensure a smooth and compliant visitation experience.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Sonoma County Sierra Youth Center - FAQs about Juvenile Detention Centers

  1. What is a juvenile detention center?
    A juvenile detention center is a secure facility designed to house minors who have been arrested, charged, or convicted of a crime. Unlike adult jails, these centers focus on rehabilitation, education, and structured supervision. Youth housed in these facilities may be awaiting trial, serving short-term sentences, or completing mandated treatment programs aimed at reducing delinquent behavior.

  2. How does a juvenile detention center differ from an adult jail?
    Juvenile detention centers differ from adult jails in their approach to discipline, rehabilitation, and environment. They prioritize counseling, education, and structured activities over punitive measures. While adult jails emphasize punishment and security, juvenile facilities are designed to address the root causes of delinquent behavior, such as trauma, lack of parental guidance, or substance abuse issues.

  3. Who can be sent to a juvenile detention center?
    Juvenile detention centers house minors under 18 who have been arrested for criminal activity, ranging from status offenses (such as truancy or curfew violations) to serious felonies like robbery or assault. Some youth may also be placed in detention for violating probation, running away from court-mandated programs, or awaiting transfer to another facility.

  4. What types of offenses lead to juvenile detention?
    Youth may be detained for a variety of offenses, including property crimes (theft, vandalism), drug-related offenses, assault, gang activity, or firearm possession. In some cases, juveniles are detained for non-criminal behavior, such as repeatedly skipping school or running away from home. The severity of the offense, prior record, and risk level typically determine whether a juvenile is detained or placed in an alternative program.

  5. How long do juveniles stay in detention centers?
    The length of stay depends on the case. Some juveniles are held for a few days or weeks while awaiting trial, while others may serve months or years depending on their sentence. Youth placed in long-term detention typically participate in rehabilitation programs, educational courses, and mental health counseling. Courts may also mandate step-down programs, where youth transition into community-based supervision before full release.

  6. Are juvenile records sealed after release?
    In many states, juvenile records are sealed or expunged once the individual reaches adulthood, provided they meet certain conditions. However, serious offenses such as violent felonies or sex crimes may remain on record, potentially affecting future employment, housing, and educational opportunities. In some cases, a juvenile may petition the court to have their record expunged after demonstrating rehabilitation.

  7. Do juveniles in detention attend school?
    Yes, most juvenile detention centers provide on-site educational programs that allow youth to continue their schooling while in custody. These programs may include core academic subjects, GED preparation, and vocational training. Some facilities work with local school districts to ensure that credits earned in detention transfer back to public schools upon release.

  8. Can family members visit juveniles in detention?
    Yes, but visitation policies vary by facility. Families typically need to schedule visits in advance, follow strict security protocols, and comply with dress code regulations. Some detention centers offer video visitation or family counseling sessions to strengthen relationships before the juvenile is released. Regular contact with family members can significantly reduce recidivism and improve rehabilitation outcomes.

  9. Are juveniles allowed to make phone calls?
    Most juvenile detention centers allow monitored phone calls, though the frequency and duration depend on facility rules, the youth’s behavior, and their case status. In some cases, juveniles may call only pre-approved family members or legal representatives. Facilities may also restrict calls if an inmate violates behavioral rules.

  10. What rehabilitation programs are available?
    Programs often include substance abuse counseling, anger management, cognitive-behavioral therapy, vocational training, and life skills workshops. These services are intended to help juveniles develop positive coping mechanisms, make better decisions, and reintegrate into their communities upon release. Some centers also offer mentorship programs where at-risk youth receive guidance from former inmates or community leaders.

  11. Are juveniles placed in solitary confinement?
    While some facilities still use room confinement or restricted housing as disciplinary measures, prolonged solitary confinement for juveniles is widely discouraged due to its negative psychological effects. Many states have passed laws limiting or banning solitary confinement for minors, encouraging the use of alternative discipline methods such as behavioral interventions and conflict resolution programs.

  12. Can juveniles be transferred to adult prison?
    In some cases, juveniles may be tried as adults for severe offenses, such as murder, armed robbery, or sexual assault. If convicted, they can be transferred to adult prison upon turning 18. Some states allow judges to reconsider these transfers based on the juvenile’s rehabilitation progress, age, and psychological evaluations.

  13. What rights do juveniles have in detention?
    Juveniles have the right to education, medical care, legal representation, and protection from abuse. They are also entitled to due process, meaning they cannot be detained indefinitely without a hearing. Inmates must be provided with access to rehabilitative services and fair treatment under the law. Any allegations of abuse or mistreatment must be investigated by oversight agencies.

  14. How do juveniles reintegrate into society after detention?
    Many juvenile detention centers offer reentry programs, including mentorship, transitional housing, probation supervision, and vocational training. Youth are often connected with caseworkers, social services, and education programs to help them successfully reintegrate. Some facilities also arrange family reunification counseling to strengthen support systems at home.

  15. What happens if a juvenile violates probation after release?
    If a juvenile violates probation, consequences can range from increased supervision and mandatory counseling to community service or re-detention. In severe cases, the juvenile may be returned to detention or sent to a more restrictive program. Courts typically evaluate the circumstances of the violation, the individual’s progress, and any external factors before making a decision.

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