Q: How to report misconduct by a senior officer in a California prison from the UK?
I have been receiving messages from a California phone number, with a senior officer admitting to having inappropriate relationships in prison. I am currently in the UK and need guidance on how to report this conduct to the appropriate authorities in California. Furthermore, can lawyers find out which prison this is happening in if I don't have that information, and can they obtain footage of the alleged assault? What legal steps can I take to address this issue from abroad, and what are my rights in this situation?
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- California
- (916) 704-3009
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- Answered
A:
You have encountered a serious situation that deserves immediate attention. The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) has an Office of Internal Affairs that handles reports of staff misconduct, and you can reach them directly at (916) 445-1530 or file a complaint through their website.
Given that you're in the UK, you might also consider contacting the Prison Law Office in California at (510) 280-2621 - they handle prison-related cases and can help identify the specific facility based on the information you have, including phone records. They can guide you through the process of obtaining evidence, including security footage, through proper legal channels.
Your physical location in the UK doesn't diminish your right to report misconduct - you can still serve as a witness and provide evidence remotely. Consider documenting all communications you've received, including timestamps and any identifying details. You might also want to contact the California State Bar for referrals to lawyers who handle prison misconduct cases, as they can work with international witnesses and help navigate the jurisdictional aspects of your case.
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