Workers were all very nice and helpful. They say to be there an hour early but I got there 45 mins early and it was fine. Everything went by quickly as far as visitation goes. It was a very straightforward process. read more

Never did I think I would be visiting a loved one in jail but, here we are so let's make the best out of the situation. Once I arrived I was appalled by the amount of parking there is, usually one has to pay or park far but here parking is not an issue. The check in process was super straight forward fill out you're form get in line go thru security then check in. You will ride a bus about 5 min to the facility and as soon as you get off go inside the facility and hand over your form to the officer. From there it's just a wait till you hear your loved one's name and they'll tell you you're booth. Staff and officers were very nice and understanding something I would wish I'd see more in L.A. Dress code is not so strict from what I've seen but I still try to keep it toned down casual just in case! Sometimes there will be lockdowns and unfortunately that aren't the facility's fault. They go thru a thorough process and as soon as everything is green light then they will almost always let you in to see your loved one. If you need to use the restroom try using the ones passing security for a cleaner experience. Stay strong everyone God is good! read more

***VISITOR REVIEW*** I know there's probably a stigma to writing such a positive review for what most would consider a negative institution. Unfortunately, when a loved one is here we should accept and make the best of it. Visiting was the smoothest process, and I'm here to share some facts, tips, pros and cons. FACTS: -Must register in the Inmate Visitation System before making appointments (easy and quick online process) Check out: https://visit.lasd.org/app -Visits are Saturday & Sunday ONLY between 8:00 am - 2:00 pm -Visits are 30 min per day -MUST check in ONE HOUR BEFORE visit -FREE parking (and plenty of it) -NO CELL PHONES (see visitors guideline link below) -MUST have valid ID -MUST KNOW inmates BOOKING NUMBER! -Inmate will be called by first and last name, so listen carefully. -Face to Face = behind glass window TIPS: -GO PREPARED!! Check out information and visiting guidelines at: http://shq.lasdnews.net/content/uoa/AS1/PDC-allCustody-visitingInfo1.pdf -Go early because the afternoon visits get crowded and longer wait times (people like to sleep in on the weekend...not me) -I suggest small purse (females) with pen, paper, ID, inmates booking number, cash (for vending machines), wet wipes/tissue (to clean phone). Keep it as minimal as you can. -Bring a book! Beats people watching and waiting (unless that's your thing). -Wear a watch if you want to stay aware of time, but be warned that everyone will probably ask you for the time. -First time visitors: make a friend who has been there before and ask questions. Most people are helpful and can ease any first time anxieties. -Have your visitors pass filled out before getting to the window AND grab a bunch to take home if you know you'll be visiting a lot. -Dress appropriately! (Bring a sweater just in case you must cover up...plus the waiting area is cold) PROS: -I am usually there less than 2 hours. I make my appointment for 10:00 am, I show up at 8:00 am visit by 9:15 am and I'm back at my car by 10:00 am. SMOOTH! (my experience anyway) -Lines move relatively fast and the process is structured. -Bathrooms and vending machines are nearby. -Buses seem to come fast to ride you back down the hill. CONS: -Bus can get crowded and you might have to stand and hold on going up the hill. -Apparently mountain lions roam the area (you will see signs). -The visitors waiting area is a long hallway/tunnel and is very cold. -30 minutes flies by so quick!!! I hope this information is helpful! Make the BEST of your visit, specially the 30 minutes spent with your loved one. read more

North County Correctional Facility - Have this filled out before getting to the window! - Public Services & Government Near Me - Castaic, California

I owe a huge thank you to all the yelpers for their reviews on this location. Although the reviews were a year or two old, perfect instruction was given. My appointment to this location was made for 2pm on August 11th. I wasn't sure what type of experience I was going to recieve seeing there wasn't any reviews written for 2019. Taking the advice of many yelpers, I left my house at 10:30. Yes, I left hours early. I didn't know what to expect and for me it makes the situation less tense by having time on your side. There was more than enough parking and there was no charge. There was also a food truck just before you get to the check-in line, which was very convient. I didn't check it out becaI didn't get a chance to see what time it was when I arrived but I made sure I asked plenty of questions of the ones that visit before. I took a small bible, two pens (in case anybody needed one), and my car keys. Nothing else! I was afraid of being patted down by security but to my surprise, their metal detectors put you in the mind of the airport only simpler. Officer Hernandez made me feel very comfortable. He spoke to me in such a friendly manner and by his expressions, I think he was thankful that I arrived with simple things in my hand. Nothing complicated. Nothing that would send me back through the detector. After passing by them there are little booths where they would check your information. On the side of those booths are the sheets that need to be filled out for the visit. (I took a couple of them home with me as one yelpers suggested because I do plan on returning next month). I filled out the sheet and got in line at the booth. To my surprise the officer needed to take a picture of me. That really helped me to realize how safe they keep things at this location. He felt my information was sufficient and hand me the slip back with my bus number on it. I approached the officer that was taking the slips of visitors and sending them to the buses. He was very polite. He told me where to wait until the bus arrived. Call it good timing but I promise I waited only about 7 minutes. The buses they used put you in the mind of the city buses so it was familiar and comfortable. I arrived at NCCF at 12:20pm. Not bad for timing. Offer Nguyen was very polite. I explained to him that my appointment was at 2 and he let me know that they check with the imates to see if they are ready and if they are they add their names to the list and shout out their name when their appointment time arrives. What I found very interesting is that the officers running the visitors desk had their badge number covered up. I didn't realize it until I was trying to obtain officer Nguyen's name for my review. The restrooms we're ok, seeing that it is a jail facility. What I appreciate most is that they had toilet seat covers although low on tissue. I didn't have no wipes to wipe down the phone during my visit so I made sure I kept one to cover the phone with. What I love about the waiting area is that they have plenty of chairs where everyone could. They were comfortable in my opinion. I loved the park like scenery they had going. I feel it helps children to feel safe and at home. They provide a loudspeaker outside so you would be able to hear the name of your loved one being called. I didn't see any vending machines so that lets me know to bring a snack on the next visit. The buses that drop you off for the visit returns dropping off other visitors and those done with their visit could load the bus to be taken back to their cars. I love the setup. Very organized and timely. The best advice I could give is leave very early for your visit, bring a snack, ask lots of questions. Go on there with a respectful attitude and you would recieve respect as well. read more

Visited here today for the first time. Visitation was Scheduled from 9_930. By the time I sat down face to face with whom I was there to see was around 1030, but understandable. *if your a female make sure your "covered up" Because they will send you back. *take only your I.D, something to read, and a Pen. Leave everything else in your car. *Sheriffs were more helpful then some visitors To be honest. *read the guidelines before you visit, to answer any specific questions you have Over all, everything went smooth cant really complain it's a JAIL FACILITY. read more

Everybody there was very professional and prompt. Even saw my friend 20 mins before the appointment time. Warning for the ladies: dont show up with your goodies hanging out. I saw one lady was denied her visit because she was exposing too much. She was throwing a tantrum in front of everybody. But the rules are posted when you schedule your visit and posted on all the walls when you arrive. read more

First off, I have never been to a correctional institution. I didn't even know one exists so close to Six Flags, which I used to frequent as a teen. Anyway, a good friend just got locked up, so I spent endless hours online trying to figure out not only where NCCF is located but also specific visitation rules and etc. I did manage to find a couple of good 'reviews' on Yelp that were written by former inmates, and it gave me somewhat of a sense of what my friend may be going through. However, I still couldn't find some minor information that I felt was crucial. Needless to say, it was frustrating. I don't know how often people search for reviews of correctional facilities, but I figured my review might one day help someone who was in a similar situation as me. So here goes...First of all, when you exit the 5 freeway, there are all these turnarounds you have to go through. I actually missed the correct turn, and spent some time driving around Castaic. Make sure you go up Old Road, and there are two directions (S/N) so make sure you drive up the one that says Pitchess Detention Center. The parking lot is huge, so you don't have to worry about parking. Once you pull in, you'll see a circular line of people. Second, there are no signs posted anywhere by the line, and I am so grateful a nice lady told me I can't take my phone or compact or cigarettes or lighter in. I had to run back to my car and throw my purse in the trunk. I thank God she held my place in line. Oh, and the line is LONG!!! I got there around 12:30 pm, and was panic-stricken by the possibility that I wouldn't be able to see my friend because visiting hours are over at 2pm. However, as long as you get your paper stamped before 2pm, you'll be allowed in. You also HAVE TO know your friend/family member's booking number because after getting searched, you are asked to fill out a form . Oh, and don't forget to take your ID. Once you get your paper processed, you have to get on a bus. Also, there are multiple bus depots so you have to look on the paper the guard gives you to find your 'bus number'. It's on the lower right side. Once you take what has to be a 2-mile shuttle ride, you have to wait in another long line until your friend's name is called. Then you get to see him for exactly 30 minutes. Once the 30 minutes are up, a guard will walk down shining a flashlight at your booth. And, yes...everyone is behind a glass booth. Hope this helps. read more

My review is only based on the service from the deputies that you have to deal with before visiting. They are all nice, to the point, help you where you need to be directed to, and are doing there job. Some will sit down and have a conversation with you, some will joke as well. I have been coming here for the past 6 months, every single weekend. Mornings are HORRIBLE. And make sure you register online and make an appointment BEFORE going in. Advice : Take wipes to clean the phones before using. Bring your own drink or snack, there is no vending machine in the waiting area anymore. read more

As an attorney, I visit this place from time to time for various reasons. This place is huge, which is a benefit if you are an inmate, compared to the cramped conditions downtown in Twin Towers Jail in Los Angeles. But it takes a while to get around, whether driving yourself, or using the bus systems. Make sure, if you are visiting someone, to read all the rules online, leave as much as you can home or in your car, and take a book and your patience. There is always a wait here. Staff seems as nice and/or professional as can be here, at least to lawyers. The facilities seem clean enough. Parking lots for staff here are often dirt lots, which can be very muddy on rainy days. read more

This review is based on my experience as a visitor, not inmate; Google the facility website and review the rules, regulations, visiting hours, etc. Know that the more prepared you are for your visit, the more swift and hassle free it will be. Nobody likes waiting in long lines, but there are measures you can take that will make the whole process more annoyance-free. Just be GRATEFUL that this service exists to allow you to connect with your boyfriend, husband, dad, friend, family member, etc. My tips: 1.) Make an appointment online and show up an hour early. 2.) I HIGHLY SUGGEST you ONLY bring your photo I.D. and car keys. Protect yourself from the unnecessary hassle of having to return to your car NO CELL PHONES are permitted inside! 3.) Please, wear appropriate clothing. No cleavage hanging out; they will make you cover it. Bring a sweater and cover your tits, seriously. 4.) You must fill out a small slip in exchange for your visiting pass/pass to board the bus. Know your inmates FULL NAME & BOOKING #. Also your drivers license # & birthday to fill on your slip. I usually fill out one and take 2 of them home with me so next time I visit I already have it pre-filled out and can just get my visiting slip right away. 5.) You may be confused about visit your first time but generally just follow the crowd and every time you see a deputy, ask whatever questions you may have and let them know its your first time. Don't be shy to ask "Where do I go now? or "What do i do next?" It may save you a lot of time. The sheriff are very polite, courteous, friendly, and helpful in my experience. Follow the rules and things will go just fine. Enjoy your 30 minute visit! :) read more

my brother is in here now and from his feedback, this place is pretty much just like Jerome F. says. My brothers last beat down was from a guard who said my brother was looking at him wrong. I went to visit my brother here once, and I wont be going back. It was a 3 hour wait just to get searched and then a 15 minute bus ridde to where he is held. Then, we waited at least another hour for our name to get called. When I finally saw him, I only got 10 minutes of his time before they took him away to the hospital....during visiting hours of course. read more

I stayed at this establishment for a little over a month. I'm sorry to say I would not recommend it to anyone. The customer service is terrible. Although very attentive, the staff is very aggressive and loud. You also have to make your own beds and clean the place yourself! The beds here are very uncomfortable, why they chose metal beds is beyond me. The locals were not very nice either, there was much more fighting than I'd prefer. As for privacy, there is none, the whole showering situation needs to be re-thought. One of the worst experiences here is the price gouging. The cost of soup here is outrageous. Some sheriff guys daughter supposedly owns the company that supplies the food and drinks. All in all this place should be avoided. If you're gonna be dragged here though make sure you bring lots of money and abandon all hope. "Hope can be a dangerous thing, hope can drive a man insane" -some guy in a movie I saw in there. read more

I was wondering how does someone end up at this facility or Supermax, for a 52 day probation violation? I had the misfortune of having a power outage and the money did not get on the books in time for my son to get his supplies. I did not realize the jail doesn't even have toilet paper for inmates or supply shower shoes? Yucky, he will have to wait a whole week now, so I feel terrible about it. I really didn't know you have to wait for supplies like this. I was really naive enough to think that my taxes were paying for at least toilet paper. I would really like to get into that care package industry, there is some big money to be made there. Anyway, he should have done his community service hours and now is dealing with this nightmare. Hopefully he will stay clean after this. read more

If you're in south it's pretty cool but never the less, all of castaics facilities are like heaven in comparison to being in cj in cell living. I mean seriously? 24/7 lockdown, no day room, showers for 4 minutes if you're lucky every other day, yard at the same time store comes oops...roof, you're lucky at eastmax, north, south, supermax, all of it read more

i think for a jail it was pretty good the process was smooth as far as staff i'm not so happy they're very rude i've been to many jails before since they have been transferring my boyfriend all around but i didn't like the staff attitude from this jail, other jails they were very happy to help you and answer all your questions especially if it was your first time visiting that specific facility. but like i said the process was smooth and at the end of the day as long as you see your loved ones that's all that matter. as far as the process goes for those of you visiting the first time this is how it goes after waiting in line and passing the metal detectors you go by the window there is a sign in paper you write your information and who you are visiting (you have to have their booking number and an valid id with you) then you get to the window give them the paper you filled out with your id and after they process that they tell you which bus you have to take you grab the paper and your id you walm towards the buses they're all numbered but if you're having a hard time there are 2 deputies that will help, after you sit in the bus they take you to the building if your appointment is at 9:30 best believe you have to wait another 30 mins there for them to open the door once they open the door you want to try and be the first to turn in the paper you filled out because usually they call in orders. once you give them the paper down the hall there is a very big area to sit and wait nobody is left standing and you have to pay attention when they call you (they call with the inmates names and last names) not yours. once you hear the inmates name you walk back to the deputy grab your paper and walk to the visiting room, once you get to the visiting room you give your paper to the deputy at the window he/she will tell you which window you have to go sit at and then you go sit and wait approximately 5-10mins they bring the inmates out! visits are only 30 minutes sometimes if you're visiting someone that is a keep away you get longer visits although when you book the visit it says 30 but you usually do get longer visits for keep Aways only since there aren't a lot of people visiting the 900s. hope this helps! have a safe visit read more

Best Staff, Money can Buy. 3 Cell Phones and a Cartoon of Smokes, is more than "One Months Pay". And where is the Harm? How many "Green Lights" can one "Vato", call in? read more

I don't know what you other guys are talking about! I spent three months at this place, because I hit my girlfriend while drunk. Not happy I did it, but I expected much worse. The guards always made sure I had clean laundry, and we were allowed to take classes. I got my mail faster here than I did back home! I had an alergic reation to something one time, and they had me seeing a doctor in less than 20 minutes. Try that on the outside. I never heard the Bad Boys song. The deputies were very professional, and were only mean to the inmates that didn't follow rules. Even then, there was not very much violence at all. I had more opportunity to get junk food there than I did back home. A bunch of free stuff too. I got stuck in a riot one time, and the first thing they did was take the uninvolved guys out and set them aside. I think at this place, you get pretty much what you deserve. Just go with the program. read more

Well, I got called today, my 28 year old son, there AGAIN, for probation violation and theft, was found DEAD of possible Heroin O/D! @ 4 am, unable to revive him. I spent most of the day trying to talk to someone there to find out more. Most numbers were bad, or always busy. Finally, I called Sheriff's Office in Castaic, lady supposed to call me back when she finds anything out. Booking/Chaplains office both only "knew" he showed as an inmate! I said well 12 hours later he AINT in no damn cell!.....Haven't gotten all the "facts" as of yet, and not talked to my son in few years dont help. My first thought, was HOW did he "afford" dope IN Jail, and it musta been some bad shyt!....His last phone call recording, I heard "he slurred his speech ( they reviewed the tape) I got all this from my ex's sister, who called to give me the bad news. I'd think there'd be some "Wrongful death" case, since, evidently, the jail can't keep the drugs out to start with?? read more

Came here as a visitor, staff acts as if they have a stick up their butt, not that anyone wants to be here but unfortunately some of our loved ones make wrong decisions. The bathrooms are horrible , they should really consider having someone clean the bathrooms from timd to time. Cops are rude, I think their title really gets to them . read more

to all those worried souls. worst part here was probably when i came here. cops were butts and stuck a full bus load of people into a 10x4 cell. there was no room to move. said "it'll only take a second" it took about 2 hours. after my two hours in the tank after getting off the bus, gave us a change of clothes, sent me to 700 corridor. segregated by homies, paisas, woods and blacks/others i was in a big dorm room, about 30 bunks, so 60 ish or maybe even 70 people. dayroom had TV. ten tables. each race gets 5. 6 phones. each race gets 3. showers. toilets. ect. meh. see my review on LA county jail. it's pretty much the same stuff. only difference is i saw some violence here. if you hear anyone being hit or anything, screaming... look away. dont get involved. only a couple of incidents, nothing serious. follow the rules set by the inmates that look like they're in charge. you'll be fine. i'd just like to highlight. in my stay, again, not sure if i'm lucky or someone/something's looking out for me, but i saw no violence here. rule of thumb, be smart, don't insult anyone, if you're offended by something, try laughing it off, IF IT DOSN'T BELONG TO YOU DON'T TOUCH IT. even if its just laying out on a table in the day room. dont bet or gamble anything unless you're going to keep your word. mind your own business and they'll generally do the same. read more

very simple, show up on time for your appointment bring booking number and your id and you should be fine, best time to book appointments is after 12:00... other than that everybody is up early weekend mornings to see their loved ones while the day is still early, dont go if you have expired car tags, no liscense, anything illegal in the car... try to not bring a purse if you can , just keys id and booking number.. show up a hour before because the process isnt long its the amount of people that makes it long and the ones that come up there not ready .... its a cali jail so what do you expect? its not gonna be a hop and a skip to see the person, try not to ask people to save your spot because not everyone wants to be held responsible for rather or not people think you should remain in your place after leaving the line. twin towers process is much faster but hey, hes not in twin towers and for me it is what it is... oh yeah bring a pen to fill out vistors form. i set my appoinment on sunday for 1 pm and seen him 12:30, but i had a appointment for saturday at 9:00 am one time and didnt see him until 10:30 am..try to go in the afternoons. much faster read more

a friend of mine is there now, i visited 2 weeks ago and i would have to say that it wasnt too bad. I expected to have to wait for a much longer time than i actually did. I got there by 5am to get in line to wait for the bus. They start letting you on to the bus at 8am, and if you are at the beginning of the line it goes very fast. I have to say that as long as you get on the very first bus you wont have to wait pretty much at all, every bus after that just basically puts you behind all of the other people waiting to see the inmates. The key is to get there as early as possible, if it is worth it to you...the line for the bus starts growing around 6 am and after that its absolutely crazy. As far as the beat downs by the guards, i havent heard anything like this from my friend, i mean ive seen some of the guards and obviously they are not nice or friendly with the inmates but thats not surprising. read more

hi my boyfriend got 4yrs but there gonna move him up to north well he still do his time as 4yrs when he gets there or do he might have to get yr and half or 2 because this Wat he told me because its part of the county so is that true read more