East SBV Times

April 25, 2024Dear Residents of San Bernardino County, I would like to take a moment to address some important matters related to our county’s safety and recent developments within the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) realignment of 26 death row inmates currently housed at Chino Institute for Men in the City of Chino.Last week, the California State Sheriff’s Association met with representatives from CDCR, and they reported several critical statistics regarding the current state of the California prison system. As of April 2024, there are approximately 93,000 inmates in custody, with over 33,000 individuals under community supervision.According to Sheriff Shannon Dicus of the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, "Recently, the City of Chino in San Bernardino County has been notified that the California Institution for Men in Chino now has 26 death row inmates housed in the facility and is expecting the arrival of 9 more in the near future."Sheriff Dicus also highlighted concerns about the realignment of additional death row inmates to the Chino Institute for Men, emphasizing the need for vigilance in ensuring public safety amidst these developments.In response to the realignment, CDCR has initiated the 'Condemned Inmate Transfer Program (CITP)' to integrate death row inmates into institutions with electrified security perimeters while integrating with the general population. The Sheriff noted that the realignment process is part of complying with Proposition 66 and Governor Newsom’s executive order to phase out segregated death row units at certain facilities.These changes in the California prison system have been influenced by various legislative and ballot proposition initiatives, resulting in a significant reduction in the inmate population over the years. Sheriff Dicus pointed out that the California prison system has seen a 43.6% decrease in population since its peak in 2006, with many individuals being realigned to county jails.Throughout the years, California has grappled with issues related to the death penalty, with a complex legal process leading to extensive review for individuals convicted of capital offenses. Sheriff Dicus emphasized the importance of understanding the challenges and implications of capital punishment in the state, citing specific cases like that of Kevin Cooper to underscore the complexities involved in such convictions.The Sheriff also touched upon the need for stricter security measures within correctional facilities, noting previous security breaches like the escapes of Kevin Cooper and Michael Garrett from the Chino Institute for Men. These incidents have raised concerns about safety protocols and infrastructure deficiencies, prompting calls for enhanced security measures and investments within CDCR’s facilities.In conclusion, Sheriff Shannon Dicus reiterated his commitment to serving the residents of San Bernardino County and ensuring public safety amid the evolving landscape of the California prison system. As the community navigates these challenges, maintaining a secure environment within correctional facilities and addressing infrastructure deficiencies remain key priorities for law enforcement officials and local authorities.Sincerely, Shannon Dicus, Sheriff-CoronerSan Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department