Coalinga State Hospital: Security

The State of California is planning to build a 1,500-bed psychiatric hospital for repeat sexual offenders who have completed their prison sentence and have been committed for extended treatment. The maximum-security facility combines internal and external security with community oversight to meet the community's needs.

• A state-of-the-art security system, run by the California Department of Corrections, will surround the hospital.

Security Measures

The California Department of Corrections (CDC) will be responsible for external security. Working in close cooperation with the Department of Mental Health (DMH) staff, Correctional Officers will operate sallyports to control entry and exit from the facility, observation towers, and perimeter patrols.

Internal security will be the responsibility of DMH. All employees are provided extensive training and supervision to ensure compliance with essential security policies and procedures. In addition, numerous internal security measures exist in a maximum-security setting:

• Census count - Maintenance of a patient count system is an essential part of the hospital. A physical count by unit employees of all patients at specified and unspecified times is required.
• Lockable units - Enable internal lockdown in emergency situations.
• Uniforms and photo identification of all patients.
• All employees have photo identification.
• On-going escape risk assessments.
• Random shakedowns.
• Contol of contraband.
• Metal detectors.

Community Safety Assured

Consistent with policy and procedures, all patients at the facilities are constantly and directly supervised. Peace officers will always accompany staff and supervise patients when escorting them off-grounds.

Patients will not be involved in off-grounds work activities.

The treatment facility will have a Citizens Advisory Board, whose members will be appointed by the Governor and whose role is to ensure community involvement.