North County Correctional Facility (NCCF): at Peter J. Pitchess Detention Center
Los Angeles County’s North County Correctional Facility (NCCF) is a maximum-security jail complex located within the Peter J. Pitchess Detention Center in Castaic, California—about 40 miles northwest of downtown Los Angeles. Operated by the L.A. County Sheriff’s Department, NCCF houses both unsentenced and sentenced male inmates, providing classification, secure housing, and rehabilitative services under one roof.
Overview & History
Conceived in the mid-1980s to relieve overcrowding, NCCF broke ground in 1985 and was officially dedicated on March 1, 1990, by Sheriff Sherman Block alongside President George H. W. Bush. Nicknamed the “Flagship,” its five-pod, centralized design was engineered for efficient staffing, streamlined security, and on-site vocational programming.
Capacity & Inmate Population
NCCF’s rated capacity sits at 3,700 beds, with an operational capacity of 4,295. As of late 2024, it housed an average of 2,633 inmates daily—about 70–90% of its rated capacity—balancing sentenced and pre-trial populations through proactive release strategies.
Housing & Security Levels
Five Maximum-Security Pods
Each pod features dormitory-style sleeping areas, day rooms, and restrooms
Segregation Cells
Dedicated wings for disciplinary separation
Medical/Mental Health Unit
A 16-bed dormitory for acute care and psychiatric observation
Multipurpose Rooms
Spaces for educational classes, counseling, and visitation
Inmate Services & Programs
Medical & Mental Health Care
On-site clinic beds for acute treatment, chronic disease management, and psychiatric services
Educational & Vocational Training
GED prep, life-skills workshops, plus inmate-staffed bakery, printing, and garment programs
Counseling & Reentry Planning
Substance-use counseling, anger management, and case management to support successful reintegration
Work Assignments
Facility maintenance and food-service roles supervised by deputies
Visiting, Communication & Commissary
Visiting Hours
Daily visits by appointment—advance scheduling and valid photo ID required
Phone & Mail
Inmates may place collect or debit calls; all incoming and outgoing mail is inspected for safety
Commissary
Funds can be deposited via kiosk or drop-box; inmates purchase approved snacks, hygiene items, and stationery
Transportation & Overcrowding Challenges
As part of a countywide system that detains over 12,000 inmates daily, NCCF frequently operates near capacity. High population levels strain staffing and can delay court transports, highlighting the need for ongoing population-management initiatives.
Have a Loved One in Custody? Start the Bail Application Now
Securing bail is the quickest way to release someone pending trial. Options include cash bail, money orders, cashier’s checks, or a licensed bail bond.