What to Expect at Check‑In for Central New Mexico Correctional Facility: vehicle searches, pat‑downs, mouth & hair checks

At CNMCF, security screening is thorough. The goal is keeping contraband - especially alcohol and controlled substances - off Department property. Searches can happen anytime you're on the grounds. Arrive prepared, keep your belongings simple, and follow staff directions the first time you're asked.

Before you can visit, you’ll register when you enter the institution, and you’ll be required to read and sign the Visitor Statement of Understanding.

Assume your vehicle and everything inside it can be searched. Staff may look through purses, coats, briefcases, diaper bags, loose clothing, even children's toys. Pack light and keep things easy to inspect.

Expect a quick hair check. Officers can visually inspect your hair and may ask you to shake it out or run your fingers, a comb, or a hair pick through it to confirm nothing is hidden.

There's also a mouth check. Everyone in the vehicle - including children - will be asked to open their mouths so the traffic control officer can look inside for contraband.

A pat search may be part of check-in. CNMCF policy allows thorough pat searches of all persons, including children, so plan for the possibility that everyone in your group will be screened this way.

After security checks, you'll handle the paperwork: register upon entry and sign the Visitor Statement of Understanding before your visit begins.

CNMCF may use drug-detection tools during visitor screening. This can include the New Mexico Corrections Department Canine Unit (dogs trained to detect controlled substances) and mechanical drug detection devices. These search methods can be used anytime you're on institutional grounds.

Two pieces of paperwork are required to get in: registration and the Visitor Statement of Understanding. You'll register upon entry, then read and sign the statement before any visit. This confirms you understand the rules and agree to the security measures.

If staff order a strip search and you refuse, the visit ends. Refusal means your visit will be cancelled or suspended.

Don't bring alcohol or controlled substances onto Department property. Anyone who uses, possesses, distributes, or attempts to introduce contraband while visiting will be reported to local law enforcement and removed from the property.

Preparation Checklist

• ✓ Leave alcohol, controlled substances, and anything that could be considered contraband at home - don’t bring it onto Department property.
• ✓ Be ready to register upon entry.
• ✓ Plan to read and sign the Visitor Statement of Understanding before your visit.
• ✓ If you’re bringing an infant, be prepared to change the diaper before the visit in the presence of a correctional officer of the same sex as the parent/guardian.
• ✓ Keep your vehicle and belongings simple and accessible, since staff may search vehicle contents (including purses, coats, diaper bags, and children’s toys).

CNMCF can use tools like the NMCD Canine Unit and mechanical drug detection devices as part of screening. Verify what check-in looks like the day you go - especially if you're bringing kids or items like a diaper bag. Family Services can answer questions about visiting procedures by email.