Pitchess Detention Center North

Search for an Inmate in Los Angeles County

Pitchess Detention Center North Information

The Pitchess Detention Center North is a 1648 bed jail in the city of Castaic, Los Angeles County, California. You can call them 24 hours a day for inmate information at 213-473-6100.

Offenders arrested for misdemeanors and felonies in this county are brought here for booking and processing, and if their crime requires it, are incarcerated until they are either bonded out, are released from custody on their own recognizance, or are ordered to remain in custody until the disposition of their trial.

You can also use the inmate search tool to see this facility's roster of those who have been arrested and are still in custody.

Those who are found guilty and sentenced to a term of less than one year, will do their time in this county. Those sentenced to longer terms will be sent to either the California State Prison System or the Federal Bureau of Prisons.

This page provides information on how to search for an inmate in the official jail roster, or by calling the facility at 213-473-6100, directions to the facility, and inmate services such as the visitation schedule and policies, funding an inmate's account, mailing them a letter, receiving phone calls from an inmate, voicemail, emailing and texting, tablet rentals, bail bond instructions, and commissary purchases.

It's always a good idea to find out and save the inmate's jail ID number or booking number as you may need this for sending mail or other communication needs. If you can't locate it online, you can call the Pitchess Detention Center North at 213-473-6100 to get it.

Phone: 213-473-6100

Physical Address:
29320 The Old Road
Castaic, CA 91384

Mailing Address (personal mail):
Inmate's Full Name & Booking Number
PO BOX 86164
Terminal Annex
Los Angeles, CA 90086-0164

Mailing Address (legal mail or subscriptions):
Inmate's Full Name & Booking Number
PO BOX 86164
Terminal Annex
Los Angeles, CA 90086-0164

Other Jails and Prisons

How Do You Find Someone in the Pitchess Detention Center North?

To search for an inmate in the Pitchess Detention Center North, review their criminal charges, the amount of their bond, when they can get visits, or even view their mugshot, go to the Official Jail Inmate Roster, or call the jail at 213-473-6100 for the information you are looking for. You can also look up a list of criminal courts for Los Angeles County and every other county in California.

Pitchess Detention Center North Inmate Search

The Pitchess Detention Center North maintains an average of 1648 offenders in custody on any given day. The Pitchess Detention Center North has a monthly turnover of 40% of their inmate population, another 30% turnover every 90 days, another 20% every six months, and approximately 10% stay incarcerated between six and twelve months. Every year Los Angeles County law enforcement agencies arrest and detain approximately 529,180 offenders.

⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show less
About the Pitchess Detention Center North

Pitchess Detention Center North in Los Angeles County segregates inmates into different jails: The North Facility, East Facility, South Facility, and North County Correctional Facility. It is located near the Six Flags Magic Mountain theme park in Castaic, California.

The address is 29340 The Old Rd, Castaic, CA 91384. It can be reached by phone at 213-473-6100 .

If you are looking for an inmate, you can try locating the through the Inmate Information Center. This facility houses male inmates only.

Pitchess Detention Center North is part of the Los Angeles County Jail system. Although the jail has a hospital to treat medical and mental health issues, there are long wait times to receive threatment, and it is reported that the medical care is inadequate. There is also violence in the jail that has resulted in injuries and the use of pepper spray.

These are helpful links for all Los Angeles County Jails:

⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show less
Recent Bookings & Arrests

Frequently Asked Questions about Pitchess Detention Center North Recent Bookings & Arrests


How do I find out if someone has been arrested and booked into the Pitchess Detention Center North?

What happens during booking in Los Angeles County?

What is the booking process like at the Pitchess Detention Center North?

What kind of questions are asked during booking?

How long does the Pitchess Detention Center North booking process take?

What happens with an offender’s personal property during booking?


 

How do I find out if someone has been arrested and booked into the Pitchess Detention Center North?

To find out if someone you know has been recently arrested and booked into the Pitchess Detention Center North, call the jail’s booking line at 213-473-6100.

There may be an automated method of looking them up by their name over the phone, or you may be directed to speak to someone at the jail. Sometimes the jail staff may ask you the offender’s date of birth to ensure privacy of the offender’s status.

Keep in mind that after an arrest, the information on an offender may not be publicly available for several hours.

If you don’t want to check up on an offender by calling the jail, you can also try looking up people recently booked online.

Pitchess Detention Center North Booking Roster


 

 

What happens during booking in Los Angeles County?

After being arrested and taken into custody, and after being read their Miranda Rights, an offender will next be transported to the local police or department or the Sheriff’s Department in Los Angeles County for booking.

Booking is very involved and requires multiple steps in the process, however, keep in mind that most attorneys will advise that an offender remain silent and not offer any additional information about the crime they have been arrested for because anything they do say may be recorded and may very well be used against them in court.


 

 

What is the booking process like at the Pitchess Detention Center North?

Booking includes having their photo (mugshot) and fingerprints taken, as well as being asked a lot of questions about their personal history and state of mind. If it’s a serious felony, their DNA may also be taken. They will also be checked for warrants in Los Angeles County and other California and USA jurisdictions.

If the offender was arrested for a DUI offense, and has refused a breathalyzer test, they may also be forced to have blood drawn by a doctor or nurse.

It is also very likely that the offender will undergo a humiliating full body search while in the nude. This includes bending over, spreading their cheeks in the direction of an officer, and coughing. They will also be walked through a metal detector or x-ray machine, like those used at an airport.


 

 

What kind of questions are asked during booking?

The arresting jurisdiction will ask about gang affiliations, tattoos, medical conditions, prescribed medication they are taking, recreational drugs they are on or addicted to, allergies, if they are suicidal, and other relevant information that will help with determining their cell assignment and special needs.


 

 

What happens with an offender’s personal property during booking?

During the arrest and booking process an offender will also have all their personal property confiscated and held for either their release from jail, or with the offender’s approval, released to a friend or family member.

Personal property includes the clothing they are wearing, money, wallets, purses, cell phones, jewelry, body rings, earrings, watches, and even glasses if they are deemed a security risk. If they are allowed to keep their shoes or sneakers, the laces are removed.

If the offender remains in jail for any length of time, the Pitchess Detention Center North will allow a friend or family member to pick up the inmate's property if the offender gives written authorization for a named person to do so.

To find out the days and times for picking up an inmate's property, and what you will need to bring to verify your identity, call the jail at 213-473-6100 during business hours.


 

 

How long does the Pitchess Detention Center North booking process take?

Booking can take anywhere from an hour to 24 hours or more. It all depends on the number of people that are awaiting processing, the number of staff on duty at the time, and the behavior of the offender.

If the offender is heavily intoxicated and/or violent, the Booking Officer may decide to stick the offender in a holding cell for several hours until they become more manageable.


 

 

What happens after an offender is booked into the Pitchess Detention Center North?

At this point the offender will be allowed to make a free phone call to a person of their choice to notify them of their arrest, and/or arrange a bond or bail for their release.

If the offender is being detained and housed while awaiting arraignment, the Pitchess Detention Center North will provide a jail garment and slip-on shoes, a blanket, sheets, soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, and a towel.

Often, before they are dressed in the jail outfit and brought to their housing location, they will be forced to take a shower and undergo a disinfectant treatment for body and hair lice, scabies or other pests that may be residing on their person.

⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show less
Directions / Map to the Pitchess Detention Center North
Inmate Bail and Bonding

Does Los Angeles County California have bail?

Yes, California is a bail state, and Los Angeles County allows bail; however California is among a growing number of states who will attempt to release a defendant under bail conditions and/or a reasonable dollar amount rather than impose a dollar amount that cannot be met.

What kind of bonds are accepted in Los Angeles County?

The court will consider what type of bonds from the following list depending on the circumstances of the arrest.

1.    Judicial public bail/bond is the release of a defendant without any money but must have some kind of supervision while out on bail. 

2.    Cash bail is payment by the defendant or another person in part or in full of the total bail.  The Los Angeles County Clerk of Court supervises this bond. 

3.    Property bail is when one or more people put up property owned in the state of California to cover the bond.  

4.    Professional surety bail is when the defendant is release on bail by having a professional bond company execute the bond.

5.    Unsecured bond is where the arrested is released from custody without having to pay a dollar amount upfront. Instead, the arrested and/or surety signs a bond that says that they will pay the full bond amount if they don’t show up to court. Even though there is no money paid, there are usually conditions such as supervised release, curfew, restraining order or attendance at a treatment center.

6.    A secured bond is where someone called a surety puts up property with greater value than the bond. A professional bondsperson can be a surety in California or a family or friend with property value that exceeds the amount of the bond amount.

Who can set bail in Los Angeles County?

For most misdemeanors, the police and bail magistrate can set bail at the time of the arrest and initial detention.

There are many factors to consider whether the arrested should be given bail and released or be detained until the arraignment. If the circumstances are such that the bail recommendations do not apply, then bail is set by the judge in Superior Court. The Superior Court judge can also consider changing the initial bail terms at the first court appearance.

When is bail set in California?

For some lesser crimes, bail can be set at the time of initial detention and for other crimes, bail is set at the arraignment which must occur within 48 hours of the arrest. 

Learn even more ⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show less
Inmate Visitation

How Do You Visit an Inmate in the Pitchess Detention Center North? What is the Schedule?

Pitchess Detention Center North, also known as 'The Wayside Jail', Inmate Visitation Schedule and Visitation Rules

All visits must be made online with GTL
No registration and no appointment = No Visit

Using the GTL Online App to first register, then selecting an inmate and then making an appointment can be confusing, so if you are having trouble call the Inmate Video Visitation System Help Desk at 213-680-4887 (Monday thru Friday) between 7:00AM and 2:00PM. That said, if you follow the instructions that follow each step of the registration process, it's quite simple.

For those who prefer to ask questions using email.

     VISITATION SCHEDULE

  • Each inmate is allowed one 30-minute visits per weekend.
  • Arrive at least one hour before your scheduled visit.
  • IMPORTANT: Because of the thousands of people that arrive to visit every day, you may want to plan on arriving several hours ahead of your scheduled visit time!
  • Because visiting hours are subject to change without notice, it is a good idea to call the visitor’s line prior to making a visit. The best number to call for this is 661-295-8074.
  • Bring your confirmation number/receipt and a valid, government-issued photo ID.
  • Visits take place at the Pitchess Detention Main Visitation Center.
    29320 The Old Road - Castaic, CA
DAY TIME
SATURDAY 8:00AM - 2:00PM
SUNDAY 8:00AM - 2:00PM
HOLIDAYS** 8:00AM - 2:00PM

** Holidays are: New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day (the 4th of July), Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day.

Attorneys and Clergy Visitation

  • Attorneys may visit inmates at the Pitchess Detention Facilities Monday - Friday from 9:00AM to 8:00PM, or outside of those hours with prior approval from the Watch Commander.  
  • Attorneys may visit inmates at the North County Correctional Facility Monday - Thursday from 9:00AM to 8:00PM, or Fridays 11:00AM to 7:00PM.
  • Clergy members may make their own arrangements with the Wayside Chaplain’s office by calling 323-526-5390.

     VISITATION RULES - Read them all. Failure to follow these may result in not getting a visit.. and you wasting a day.

  • All visits must be scheduled in advanced. There will be no walk-in appointments allowed nor scheduled at Pitchess Detention Center North.
  • All Visits to the Pitchess Detention Center North are arranged on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • All visitors must enter the Pitchess Detention Center North main gate and park in the visitor’s center parking lot.  Visitors must then go to the 'visitor’s registration desk' where they will complete a 'request for visit' form.  The form must include the inmate’s name, booking number and name of the visitor(s).  After completing this step, visitors will be directed to the proper bus loading area and be transported to the Pitchess Detention Center North visitation area. The absolute minimum time you should plan on, from arriving to leaving from the visit is approximately four (4) hours.
  • You must have proof of vaccine, proof of a recent (3 days) COVID test, or have proof of recovery in order to visit. 
  • You must have a California state or US government issued ID card.
  • Visitors must wear a mask at all times and maintain at least six feet of distance.
  • Only one adult visitor or one adult with one child will be allowed at a time. (Note: During normal visitation, up to three visitors - which includes three children - are allowed per inmate. This may change once the pandemic panic is over). Call 213-680-4887 or 661-295-8074 to confirm prior to leaving for your visit.
  • If you are a convicted felon or currently on parole or probation, you need a preapproval to visit. Fill out and submit this form, and you can expect to receive a letter within about a month granting or denying permission.
  • Minors 17 and under must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian unless legally emancipated. Appropriate paperwork is required as proof of status, including guardianship or emancipation.
  • Children must show some form of a photo ID and remain closely supervised at all times.
  • Personal belongings should be left behind or will be stored in lockers. Strictly prohibited items include cell phones/electronic devices/cameras, tobacco products, waterless hand sanitizers containing alcohol, medications (including homeopathic) hygiene products, stationery, carabiner shackle tools, plastics of all kinds.
  • Do not arrive under the influence of alcohol or drugs (or with contraband in your possession) or you may be subject to arrest.
  • Persons causing a disruption will be ejected from the visitation area
  • There is also a strictly enforced dress code for visitors at the Pitchess Detention Center North. The following may deny you entry:
     - Revealing clothing, such as strapless and midriff-baring tops, see-through material or display of cleavage
     - Skirts, shorts or dresses that are higher than mid-thigh
     - Gang-affiliated clothes and accessories
     - Bare feet
     - Swimsuits
     - Bare torsos or muscle/sleeveless shirts
     - Clothing with graphics depicting nudity, violence, drugs or gang themes

Pitchess Detention Center North Visitation Page - Find more of the the Rules, Policies and Guidelines regarding Inmate Visitation below.
Read carefully and save yourself a trip, and a wasted day sitting around waiting, for nothing.

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Pitchess Detention Center North’s Inmate Visitation Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 213-473-6100 for further assistance.

Learn even more ⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show less
Remote Video Visitation

Can I Use My Computer or Phone to Have a Remote Video Visit with an Inmate in the Pitchess Detention Center North?

Pitchess Detention Center North, also known as 'The Wayside Jail', Inmate Visitation Schedule and Visitation Rules

All visits must be made online with GTL
No registration and no appointment = No Visit

Using the GTL Online App to first register, then selecting an inmate and then making an appointment can be confusing, so if you are having trouble call the Inmate Video Visitation System Help Desk at 213-680-4887 (Monday thru Friday) between 7:00AM and 2:00PM. That said, if you follow the instructions that follow each step of the registration process, it's quite simple.

For those who prefer to ask questions using email.

     VISITATION SCHEDULE

  • Each inmate is allowed one 30-minute visits per weekend.
  • Arrive at least one hour before your scheduled visit.
  • IMPORTANT: Because of the thousands of people that arrive to visit every day, you may want to plan on arriving several hours ahead of your scheduled visit time!
  • Because visiting hours are subject to change without notice, it is a good idea to call the visitor’s line prior to making a visit. The best number to call for this is 661-295-8074.
  • Bring your confirmation number/receipt and a valid, government-issued photo ID.
  • Visits take place at the Pitchess Detention Main Visitation Center.
    29320 The Old Road - Castaic, CA
DAY TIME
SATURDAY 8:00AM - 2:00PM
SUNDAY 8:00AM - 2:00PM
HOLIDAYS** 8:00AM - 2:00PM

** Holidays are: New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day (the 4th of July), Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day.

Attorneys and Clergy Visitation

  • Attorneys may visit inmates at the Pitchess Detention Facilities Monday - Friday from 9:00AM to 8:00PM, or outside of those hours with prior approval from the Watch Commander.  
  • Attorneys may visit inmates at the North County Correctional Facility Monday - Thursday from 9:00AM to 8:00PM, or Fridays 11:00AM to 7:00PM.
  • Clergy members may make their own arrangements with the Wayside Chaplain’s office by calling 323-526-5390.

     VISITATION RULES - Read them all. Failure to follow these may result in not getting a visit.. and you wasting a day.

  • All visits must be scheduled in advanced. There will be no walk-in appointments allowed nor scheduled at Pitchess Detention Center North.
  • All Visits to the Pitchess Detention Center North are arranged on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • All visitors must enter the Pitchess Detention Center North main gate and park in the visitor’s center parking lot.  Visitors must then go to the 'visitor’s registration desk' where they will complete a 'request for visit' form.  The form must include the inmate’s name, booking number and name of the visitor(s).  After completing this step, visitors will be directed to the proper bus loading area and be transported to the Pitchess Detention Center North visitation area. The absolute minimum time you should plan on, from arriving to leaving from the visit is approximately four (4) hours.
  • You must have proof of vaccine, proof of a recent (3 days) COVID test, or have proof of recovery in order to visit. 
  • You must have a California state or US government issued ID card.
  • Visitors must wear a mask at all times and maintain at least six feet of distance.
  • Only one adult visitor or one adult with one child will be allowed at a time. (Note: During normal visitation, up to three visitors - which includes three children - are allowed per inmate. This may change once the pandemic panic is over). Call 213-680-4887 or 661-295-8074 to confirm prior to leaving for your visit.
  • If you are a convicted felon or currently on parole or probation, you need a preapproval to visit. Fill out and submit this form, and you can expect to receive a letter within about a month granting or denying permission.
  • Minors 17 and under must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian unless legally emancipated. Appropriate paperwork is required as proof of status, including guardianship or emancipation.
  • Children must show some form of a photo ID and remain closely supervised at all times.
  • Personal belongings should be left behind or will be stored in lockers. Strictly prohibited items include cell phones/electronic devices/cameras, tobacco products, waterless hand sanitizers containing alcohol, medications (including homeopathic) hygiene products, stationery, carabiner shackle tools, plastics of all kinds.
  • Do not arrive under the influence of alcohol or drugs (or with contraband in your possession) or you may be subject to arrest.
  • Persons causing a disruption will be ejected from the visitation area
  • There is also a strictly enforced dress code for visitors at the Pitchess Detention Center North. The following may deny you entry:
     - Revealing clothing, such as strapless and midriff-baring tops, see-through material or display of cleavage
     - Skirts, shorts or dresses that are higher than mid-thigh
     - Gang-affiliated clothes and accessories
     - Bare feet
     - Swimsuits
     - Bare torsos or muscle/sleeveless shirts
     - Clothing with graphics depicting nudity, violence, drugs or gang themes

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Pitchess Detention Center North’s Video Remote Visitation Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 213-473-6100 for further assistance.

Learn even more ⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show less
Inmate Money Accounts

How Do You Deposit Money for an Inmate in the Pitchess Detention Center North?

How to Deposit Money in a Pitchess Detention Center North Inmate's Account

There are two ways to deposit money in an inmate's account in the Los Angeles County Jail system:
1.  Mailing a Payment - $200 maximum

Mailing Address:
Inmate's Full Name & Booking Number
PO BOX 86164
Terminal Annex
Los Angeles, CA 90086-0164

2.  Dropping off a payment - $200 maximum
When dropping off an inmate's money in person, the Pitchess Detention Center North will only accept:

  • Cash
  • US Postal Money Orders, or
  • Certified Bank Cashier Checks from banks in California for deposit into an inmate’s account.

Locations to drop off inmate money:

Inmate Reception Center
450 Bauchet Street
Los Angeles, CA 90012

or

Century Regional Detention Facility
11705 S. Alameda Street
Lynwood, CA 90262

For complete information and guidelines for sending an inmate money including: the maximum you can send, what form the payment has to be, the maximum an inmate can have in their account and more, check out our Inmate Money page.


 

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Pitchess Detention Center North’s Inmate Money and Trust Fund Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 213-473-6100 for further assistance.

Learn even more ⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show less
Inmate Phone Contact

How Do I Receive Phone Calls from an Inmate in the Pitchess Detention Center North?

How Do You Communicate with an Inmate in the Pitchess Detention Center North by Phone

Follow these instructions on how to open an account with GTL Connect Network (aka Viapath Technologies)

  • Advance Pay - This phone account allows you to prepay so that your inmate can call you (and only you) whenever he/she wants and the cost of each call is deducted from your balance. You can even be notified by text when your balance gets low. You still have the option of accepting or rejecting each call.
  • Pin Debit  -  This option allows you to fund an inmate's commissary account and lets him pay for phone calls to you and others with the money. You will have no control over who your inmate calls.
  • Voicemail  -  You can leave a secure voicemail without having to contact the facility. When you call the local phone number for a facility offering Inmate Voicemail (call Customer Service at 877-650-4249 to get the local voicemail number for Pitchess Detention Center North, you will be informed of the cost for leaving a message. To leave your message, simply select the inmate by ID number. Then, record your voicemail.

For full instructions on the Pitchess Detention Center North Inmate Phone System, what the costs are, how it works, and tips and guidelines on rules, regulations and saving money on calls, check out our Inmate Phones Page.

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Pitchess Detention Center North’s Inmate Phone Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 213-473-6100 for further assistance.

Learn even more ⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show less
Mailing an Inmate

How do I Mail an Inmate in the Pitchess Detention Center North, and what can I send them?

The Pitchess Detention Center North has a very strict set of rules and policies regarding mail that is delivered to inmates.

The purpose of these rules are not to make life difficult for you or to ‘punish’ incarcerated inmates further, but are here for the safety and security of all the inmates and staff who reside and work in what can be a very dangerous place.

 For the time being, Pitchess Detention Center North is still allowing inmates to receive physical mail, however many jails and prisons around the country are starting to go full-on digital; only allowing electronic messages and digital images to be accessible by inmates through kiosks or jail provided handheld devices.

All LA County Jail Inmates are made aware of the following Rules and Policies and these are also posted in the lobbies of each of the facilities to educate friends and loved ones.  

Many items that are needed by inmates that you may want to mail but can’t, can be purchased directly from the LA County Jail’s Commissary. Even indigent inmates, those without any funds, are provided basic hygiene items and other items necessary for their physical and mental health.

Pitchess Detention Center North Inmates are allowed mail in envelopes and on postcards.

They are also allowed to receive books, magazine and newspapers directly from trusted publishers and businesses.

Mailing Address:

Inmate's Full Name & Booking Number
PO BOX 86164
Terminal Annex
Los Angeles, CA 90086-0164

The following is a list of prohibited items: 

If any of these items are mailed to an inmate in the Pitchess Detention Center North, they will be returned intact to the sender (provided there is a return address) and the inmate will NOT be notified. 

Read and follow this list carefully. There are NO EXCEPTIONS to this policy.

ENVELOPES & POSTCARDS

*All envelopes and paper must be free of debris and/or any illegal substances, perfume/cologne, powders, lip stick, food or cosmetic items or dried liquids. 

*Blank envelopes, envelopes with a metal clasp, postage stamps, envelopes with gang or suggestive drawings/artwork

*Cash, personal or second-party checks, payroll checks, out-of-state checks

*Blank money order(s) (money orders must be signed and made payable to the inmate)

*Money order(s) that would increase the inmate's trust funds in excess of the $900 limit

*Out-of-state money order(s)

*Money order in amount exceeding $200 limit

*Musical, plastic, or blank greeting card(s)

*Identification card(s) or copies of ID cards

*Paper clip(s), staple(s), pen(s), pencil(s), glitter, sticker(s), glued or gummed label(s)

*Postcard(s) larger than 6''x 9''

*Rosary bead(s), balloon(s), string bracelet(s), or jewelry item(s)

*Lottery ticket(s) or pre-paid telephone card(s)

*Cellophane tape or any type of tape on letters

*Audio, CDs, or cassette tapes

BOOKS, NEWSPAPERS & MAGAZINES

*Item(s) not sent directly from an accepted bookstore or publisher such as Amazon, Barnes & Noble, etc.

*Item(s) of explicit sexual nature or that depict full or partial frontal nudity

*Item(s) that depict or describe how to create weapons or commit crimes, or contains content that has been determined to compromise jail security

*Item(s) exceeding the limit of three (3) books per week

*Item(s) exceeding the limit of three (3) periodicals or publications per week

*Item(s) has metal or plastic binding

*Item(s) has a hard cover (only paperback books are allowed)

PHOTOGRAPHS & COMPUTER PRINTED IMAGES 

*Item(s) does not conform to size requirements: Minimum of 3"x 5" / Maximum of 4"x 6" 

*Item(s) that depict nudity, sexually-suggestive content, or gang imagery

*Item(s) that depicts content which has been determined to compromise jail security

*Polaroid photos

POLICY REGARDING COMPLAINTS & APPEALS OF A RETURNED ITEM

If you do send a book, a magazine or a publication and is returned, yet you believe that it should have been accepted by the jail and given to your inmate, you can file an appeal, as long as you appeal it within 15 days of receiving notification that the item was returned.

The LA County Jail will then provide you with their decision of your appeal within 15 days.

You can appeal the return of a book, newspaper, magazine or publication by filing a complaint here.
 

Your appeal MUST INCLUDE ALL the following information or it will be automatically denied: 

(1)  The involved inmate's name and booking number; 
(2)  The form's reference number; 
(3)  The sender's contact information; 
(4)  A description of the withheld/returned item; 
(5)  The date the item was sent to the inmate; 
(6)  The date the sender received this Returned Mail Notification; 
(7)  The reason(s) the sender disagrees with the LASD’S decision to withhold/return the item.

**If you have any questions about any of these rules, policies, guidelines and/or the appeal process, please contact the Mail Room Supervisor at 213-893-5874.

These rules, policies and guidelines are subject to change any time.

How to Send Mail to an Inmate in the Pitchess Detention Center North

Pitchess Detention Center North Inmates are allowed mail in envelopes and on postcards. They are also allowed to receive photos.

They are also allowed to receive books, magazine and newspapers directly from trusted publishers and businesses.

Mailing Address:
Inmate's Full Name & Booking Number
PO BOX 86164
Terminal Annex
Los Angeles, CA 90086-0164

To learn all the rules, policies and guidelines, and they are extensive, for sending anything in the mail to an inmate at any of the Los Angeles County Jails, check out our Inmate Mail Page.

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Pitchess Detention Center North’s Inmate Mail Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 213-473-6100 for further assistance.

Learn even more ⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show less
Inmate Commissary

Can I purchase Commissary Online for an Inmate in the Pitchess Detention Center North, and what can I purchase?

Pitchess Detention Center North contracts with Access Securepak (aka MyCarePak) for families to send pre-determined packages of commissary items to your inmate.

Access Securepak carries over 1,000 different items in the following categories:
- Food and Snacks
- Personal Hygiene Products
- Electronics
- Apparel

Registration Process:
1. Register here.
2. Select California.
3. Select Pitchess Detention Center North.
4. Find your Inmate.
5. Deposit Funds.
6. Order Commissary Items.
Once you are logged in, you will receive instructions on how much (and what products) you can send your inmate.
Contact Information:
* If you have any questions, you can call Access Securepak at 800-546-6283.
* You can email My Care Pack at customerservice@securepak.net.
* You can write them at:
    Access Securepak
    10880 Linpage Place
    St. Louis, MO 63132

* You can Live Chat with a Representative online: (bottom left corner of page)
   Monday-Friday, 7:30 a.m.–11 p.m. CST, 
   and Saturdays, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. CST.

*Note* Access Securepak will issue a refund for or replace broken, damaged, or missing products reported by Pitchess Detention Center North staff. They will not honor reports of discrepancies from inmate's families or friends.
My CarePack is the Pitchess Detention Center North's outside vendor for Commissary Items. They have a very good mix of Chips, Snacks, Candy, Meat, Seafood, Hygiene products, Letter writing materials, Electronics and Apparel items for sale on their website.


*NOTE* -- Once you are fully registered and have selected the inmate you wish to send commissary to, you will receive instructions on how much you can deposit, how much (and what) you can purchase for your inmate, and how often you can send commissary.

How to Send a Carepack Commissary Package Directly to an Inmate in Los Angeles County

To send a commissary carepack (food, snacks and goods) directly to an inmate in Pitchess Detention Center North follow these steps:

  • Select California, then select Pitchess Detention Center North, and then select the 'Send a Package Order' option.
  • Register and create an account with Access Securepak, for Los Angeles County.
  • Choose the inmate and the products you want shipped to them, and input your payment method. 
  • NOTE: There may be a limit on how much product you can send your inmate in Los Angeles County at any one time.

For all information, tips and available items for shipping Commissary packages to an inmate in Pitchess Detention Center North check out our Commissary Instructions Page for Los Angeles County.

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Pitchess Detention Center North’s Commissary Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 213-473-6100 for further assistance.

Learn even more ⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show less
Texting and Emailing an Inmate

How Can I Communicate with an Inmate in the Pitchess Detention Center North using an Online Messaging Service?

No.

As of January 2023, LA County Jails do not yet contract with a service that allows email or messaging services. 

A growing number of jails now offer email services to inmates and their families.

  • This can save you time by letting you view your email from your smart phone, computer, or tablet, whenever you wish. 
  • You don't have to deal with envelopes, stamps or the post office.
  • Inmates like it because the emails eliminate delays so they can get your correspondence quickly and send responses immediately.
  • Jail staffs like it as it eliminates concerns about contraband entering the facility in envelopes and on paper. It also allows the jail to have an electronic record that can be called upon at any time.

Anything you or your inmate writes in an email service is put through a filtering program that looks for certain words related to criminal and/or gang activities. There have been multiple cases in which emails between inmates and their friends or loved ones have been used as evidence in criminal court cases to convict them or to file new charges.

How do Inmates at the Pitchess Detention Center North Communicate using Email?

As of January 2023, LA County Jails do not yet contract with a service that allows email or messaging services.  For the time being the only communication with inmates by US Mail, By Phone or by Visiting them at the facility.

For more information on how jails across America are using third-party email services to allow communication between inmates and their loved ones, check out our Inmate Email page.

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Pitchess Detention Center North’s Text and Email Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 213-473-6100 for further assistance.

Learn even more ⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show less
Inmate Tablets

Do Inmates in the Pitchess Detention Center North have Access to Tablets or Computers?

Pitchess Detention Center North either allows, or may soon be allowing inmates access to tablets to use for the services provided by GTL (aka Viapath Technologies)

Follow the instructions below to get a tablet for your inmate at Pitchess Detention Center North

The devices are similar to common handheld tablets, but are made exclusively by GTL and Viapath.
Tablets offer specialized content and services for inmates to use during their stay at Pitchess Detention Center North, such as:

  • Music
  • Books
  • Games
  • Education
  • News
  • Radio
  • Television
  • Read mail and messages
  • Video visits

Free services are already available for use on the device at Pitchess Detention Center North.
Subscription services are funded separately by family and friends with deposits made into an inmate’s Debit Link account.
Pitchess Detention Center North Inmates will then be able to purchase subscription services and premium content to enjoy.

What It Costs

To estimate costs for tablets and other services such as phone calls, sign in to your account and click “Rate & Fees Calculator” in the footer (bottom of the page), but the following gives you a general idea.

Game Center:

30-Day Subscription: $4.99, with an additional $1.00 service infrastructure charge ($5.99)

Fourteen-Day Subscription: $2.99, with an additional $0.75 service infrastructure charge ($3.74)

Seven-Day Subscription: $1.99, with an additional $0.50 service infrastructure charge ($2.49)

Unlimited eBooks:

Thirty-Day Subscription: $1.99, with an additional $1.00 service infrastructure charge ($2.99)

Fourteen-Day Subscription: $0.99, with an additional $0.75 service infrastructure charge ($1.74)

Seven-Day Subscription: $0.49, with an additional $0.50 service infrastructure charge ($0.99)

Streaming Music:

Thirty-Day Subscription: $8.99, with an additional $16.00 service infrastructure charge ($24.99)

Fourteen-Day Subscription: $5.99, with an additional $9.00 service infrastructure charge ($14.99)

Seven-Day Subscription: $2.99, with an additional $5.00 service infrastructure charge ($7.99)

Newsfeed

Thirty-Day Subscription: $3.99, with an additional $6.00 service infrastructure charge ($9.99)

Fourteen-Day Subscription: $1.99, with an additional $5.00 service infrastructure charge ($6.99)

Seven-Day Subscription: $0.99, with an additional $3.00 service infrastructure charge ($3.99)

Same Day Subscription Services

Game Center: $0.99, with an additional $0.50 service infrastructure charge ($1.49)

Unlimited eBooks: $0.25, (Total = 0.25)

Newsfeed: $0.24, with an additional $0.75 service infrastructure charge ($0.99)

FM Radio: $0.24, with an additional $0.25 service infrastructure charge ($0.49)

All Subscription and message credit pricing is subject to state and local taxes. 

Replacement Components - should your inmate break it...

Tablet: $249.99 per each

Charger: $8.99 per each

Earbuds: $2.99 per each

How to use a Tablet to Access Services at Pitchess Detention Center North

To find out how to get access to a tablet for an inmate read the following:

1.  First, Register or Sign In to GTL / Viapath Services.

2.  In the top menu, click on 'Services', then on 'Inmate Devices & Content'.
3. All inmates have free access to the tablets to read their letters from family & friends, but there are many other services available to keep your inmate busy while incarcerated... such as Games, Books, Music and Movies. These other services come with fees that you can pay for when you pay for phone service.

To learn more about Tablet Rentals for inmates, including the cost, all the services available and everything else you need to know, check out our Tablet Rental Page.

We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Pitchess Detention Center North’s Tablet Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 213-473-6100 for further assistance.

Learn even more ⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show less
Are there photos of the Pitchess Detention Center North? What does it look like?
Other Jails in Los Angeles County

What are the other City and County Jails in Los Angeles County?

Los Angeles County County Jails
Los Angeles County City Jails
Los Angeles County Juvenile Facilities
⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show less
Other Jails Nearby

What are the other Jails in the Neighboring Counties surrounding Los Angeles County?

Los Angeles Orange Ventura Kern San Bernardino
⇓ Learn more ⇓ Show less

Search for an Inmate in Los Angeles County

This facility, known as "Pitchess Detention Center North" is also known as Los Angeles County Jail, LA COUNTY JAIL - Pitchess Detention Center North.