California Reaches $10 Million Prison Abuse Settlement
The agreement follows a class-action lawsuit filed by women subjected to chemical agents at a state facility in Chowchilla.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Criminal Justice
California has agreed to a $10 million tentative settlement to resolve a class-action lawsuit involving the pepper-spraying of incarcerated women. The state reached the deal without admitting fault regarding the events that occurred at the Central California Women's Facility.
Why it matters
The settlement addresses systemic misconduct allegations that led to the termination of three correctional officers and disciplinary action against 31 others. It marks a significant financial resolution following an incident involving the use of chemical grenades against more than 150 inmates.
A judge is scheduled to review the $10 million settlement on Dec. 4, which includes $7.45 million for the 142 women in the class and $2.5 million for legal fees. The state did not admit fault in the legal settlements.
The players
Central California Women's Facility
This is a state prison located in Chowchilla that houses incarcerated women.
The details
Correctional officers moved more than 150 women to a dining hall for a search before deploying pepper spray and chemical grenades inside the hall and the yard. Following the incident, the warden of the Central California Women's Facility was transferred and demoted.
Timeline
Aug. 2, 2024: Correctional officers deployed chemical agents against incarcerated women.
March 2026: A separate settlement of $1.9 million was finalized.
June 30, 2026: Incarcerated women were photographed in the prison yard.
September 2026: The prison warden was transferred and demoted.
Dec. 4, 2026: A judge will review the settlement agreement.
Legal Context
This settlement follows the precedent set by a previous $1.9 million agreement that compensated 13 injured women. The state government continues to navigate these legal challenges without issuing formal admissions of wrongdoing.
The resolution of this case impacts public oversight of state correctional facilities and the accountability of officers involved in inmate interactions. Residents can monitor future developments as the court process moves toward the final settlement review in December.
The takeaway
This settlement highlights the ongoing legal and administrative scrutiny surrounding the use of force within California state prisons. It serves as a reminder of the significant oversight required when personnel face disciplinary actions following reports of excessive force.
What happens next
A judge is expected to hold a review hearing on Dec. 4, 2026, to determine if the settlement agreement will be finalized. If approved, claim forms will be mailed to 142 eligible women represented in the class action.
Further reading
For additional updates on state oversight and reform, visit the Criminal Justice section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Kqed.
