Inside Selena Valley State Prison: A Glimpse into California's Toughest Maximum Security Facility

🔒Selena Valley State Prison is a level four maximum security facility with high levels of violence and gang activity.

🌱The prison is implementing rehabilitation programs, such as meditation and mindfulness, to address overcrowding and reduce recidivism.

💪The staff at Selena Valley State Prison work tirelessly to maintain order and prevent violence among inmates.

💀Gang violence is a major issue in the prison, with inmates segregated based on race and affiliation.

⚖️California's overcrowded prison system is focusing on rehabilitation as a solution to address the unsustainable costs of incarceration.

What is the level of violence at Selena Valley State Prison?

—Selena Valley State Prison has a high level of violence, with over 700 assaults reported in a year.

What initiatives are being implemented to address overcrowding?

—The prison is implementing rehabilitation programs, including meditation and mindfulness, to address overcrowding and reduce recidivism.

How are inmates segregated in the prison?

—Inmates in Selena Valley State Prison are segregated based on race and affiliation, with different gangs controlling different areas of the yard.

What is the purpose of rehabilitation programs in the prison?

—Rehabilitation programs in Selena Valley State Prison aim to reduce recidivism and provide inmates with skills for a successful reintegration into society.

What is the overall goal of California's prison system regarding incarceration?

—California is focusing on rehabilitation as a solution to address overcrowding and reduce the unsustainable costs of incarceration.

00:00Selena Valley State Prison is a maximum security facility for California's worst criminals.

00:23The prison has a green electrified fence powered by solar energy.

01:14The prison is divided into different yards controlled by race-based gangs.

03:28The prison is implementing meditation and mindfulness programs to address violence and promote rehabilitation.

05:03California's prison system is transitioning towards rehabilitation to address overcrowding and reduce costs.

08:11Violence and gang activity are still significant issues in the prison, with frequent incidents reported.

10:50Prison staff work collaboratively to maintain order and prevent violence among inmates.

12:42The prison has a history of recovering homemade weapons used by inmates.