California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation

The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) is responsible for the operation of the California state prison and parole systems. Its headquarters are in Sacramento.

Staff size

CDCR is the second largest law enforcement or (police agency) in the United States behind the New York City Police Department, which employs approximately 40,000 police officers. CDCR correctional officers are sworn law enforcement officers (CA state peace officers) with peace officer powers, while on duty.

As of 2013, CDCR employed approximately 24,000 peace officers (state correctional officers), 1,500 state parole agents, and 700 criminal investigators/special agents.

History

In 1851, California activated its first state run institutions. This institution was a 268-ton wooden ship named "The Waban", and was anchored in the San Francisco Bay. The prison ship housed 30 inmates who subsequently constructed San Quentin State Prison, which opened in 1852 with approximately 68 inmates.