Inmates Call for Release-First Approach as California Prison Shutdown Continues

The California Rehabilitation Center, long criticized for extreme heat, pest infestations and unsafe water, was officially emptied on July 29, 2026, yet the prison remains on a costly “warm shutdown.” During the wind-down, the remaining roughly 400 inmates were crammed into overcrowded dorms with broken sinks, cockroach infestations and reduced meal portions, while fire-related smoke added health hazards. Transfer orders arrived without warning, often at night, and many prisoners arrived at California State Prison in Lancaster without personal items, winter clothing or communication devices, forcing them to endure hunger and isolation.

Advocates contend that these hardships are avoidable and that the CDCR should evaluate inmates for resentencing or release once a closure is announced, saving the state the $128,000 annual cost per inmate and eliminating needless transfers. They also call for meaningful choice in any required relocations, respecting family proximity, health needs and ongoing programs. The piece urges California to close more prisons while centering releases over transfers to reduce the human toll of incarceration.