Jail is the place where criminals are imprisoned, typically awaiting trial. It’s also where criminals are sentenced to serve time after being convicted. People who have been arrested and not yet convicted of a crime but are considered dangerous may also be held for a short time in a jail before receiving bail or sentencing.
Services offered at Van Nuys Jail
Below are a list of the services offered at Van Nuys Jail.
Telephone Calls
The telephone system in the community is a closed circuit. This means that all calls made by inmates must be placed through the staff. Inmates are allowed to place collect calls, but long distance charges will apply.
Visitation
Inmates are allowed at least two visits per week and up to eight visits per month. A visit can last up to 30 minutes, and can be extended based on availability of staff or space. Visitors must be at least 18 years of age unless accompanied by a parent or legal guardian, and must not have any physical defects or contagious diseases (including TB) that could potentially endanger others in the visiting area. Visitors are not allowed to bring in any type of food, gum or cigarettes unless approved by staff.
Mail
Inmates are allowed 2 pieces of regular mail per week and up to 10 letters per month, depending on staff availability. Contact the Jail Warden for more information about specific guidelines for receiving mail. There is a lock box at the Jail to make sure that inmates do not send out any mail that should be left inside the facility.
Books and Magazines
Books and magazines are not permitted in the Jail, except for those from the library. Staff will provide inmates with a list of approved books and magazines once they have been approved by staff. Inmates are allowed to write a list of up to five books or magazine titles that they would like permission to obtain from the library.
Medical Treatment
A nurse is on staff 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Inmates who are having medical issues will be seen by the nurse the same day that they are experiencing symptoms. If an inmate is in need of medical treatment and they do not feel comfortable raising their hand to get the attention of a staff member, they may call from their cell. The medical staff will provide any necessary medical treatment that cannot be provided by Jail staff for inmates who are experiencing urgent health problems. They will also provide other needed medications and treatments as well as any referrals to specialists/dentists/doctors if needed.
Conclusion
It is the responsibility of the Warden to see that Jail is operated in a manner that is consistent with Jail policy, state and federal law, and the Eighth Amendment’s protection against cruel and unusual punishment. The Jail staff will follow Jail policy to ensure that inmates are treated fairly.
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