How to Send Messages to Inmates

You can use your phone or computer to send emails, letters, and photos to an inmate. Messages are sent electronically to inmate tablets or kiosks at the facility. If you would like to send a message, start by searching for an inmate at Dona Ana County Detention Center.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Dona Ana County Detention Center is to send photos and postcards. It only takes a few minutes to send photos from your phone and it makes a huge difference. You can also mail postcards with words of support and inspiration, or design your own postcard for special moments like birthdays and holidays.

Important! Be sure not to send any explicit photos or they may not be approved by the facility. You can also use a photo printing app like Penmate to make sure your photos are printed at the correct size (4x6 or 3x5) and are mailed according to the rules and regulations of Dona Ana County Detention Center.

Frequently asked questions about Dona Ana County Detention Center

1. How long does it take to deliver a message?

   If you're sending an email message your letter is usually delivered within 24-48 hours. For messages sent via mail you should expect delivery within 3-7 days. All messages will need be approved by Dona Ana County Detention Center.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Dona Ana County Detention Center?

   You can send a message free using your phone or mail a message via USPS for the price of a $0.60 stamp and envelope. You can also purchase credits or e-stamps from services starting at $1.99.

3. What services can I use to contact an inmate at Dona Ana County Detention Center?

   Penmate

   You can use Penmate to send letters and photos to an inmate from your phone. It's an easy way to stay in touch during your loved one's incarceration. Use the inmate locator to find an inmate's location and contact information, then you can send messages within a few minutes.

   Securus messaging

   Securus may be another option for communicating with an inmate at Dona Ana County Detention Center. You can create a friends and family account and purchase credits to send messages. All messages will be reviewed and must be approved by the facility.

   JPay

   Some county jails and state prisons may support sending messages with JPay. You must register an account with the system, find your loved one, and purchase stamps to send messages. For some locations you can also attach photos.

   Smart Jail Mail

   You may also check if Smart Jail Mail is available at Dona Ana County Detention Center. Smart Jail Mail is operated by Smart Communications and has contracted with some state and county jails. After purchasing credits, your messages and photos are sent to the facility, printed out, and then handed out to your loved one.

4. What is the mailing address of Dona Ana County Detention Center?

   Mailing address:

   Dona Ana County Detention Center
   1850 Copper Loop
   Las Cruces, NM 88005
   Phone: (575) 647-7600

   Business hours:

   • Monday: Open 24 hours
   • Tuesday: Open 24 hours
   • Wednesday: Open 24 hours
   • Thursday: Open 24 hours
   • Friday: Open 24 hours
   • Saturday: Open 24 hours
   • Sunday: Open 24 hours

5. What are the visiting hours at Dona Ana County Detention Center?

   Visiting hours at Dona Ana County Detention Center vary by housing unit and security level. Generally, visits are scheduled on weekends and holidays, with some facilities offering weekday visits. Contact the facility directly at (575) 647-7600 or check their website for the current visiting schedule. Visits typically last 30-60 minutes and must be scheduled in advance.

6. What items are prohibited when sending mail to Dona Ana County Detention Center?

   Prohibited items typically include: cash, personal checks, stamps, stickers, glitter, glue, tape, staples, paperclips, polaroid photos, musical or blank greeting cards, hardcover books, magazines with staples, and any items containing metal or electronics. Only send letters on plain white paper with blue or black ink. Photos must be printed on regular photo paper (no Polaroids). Always check with Dona Ana County Detention Center for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Dona Ana County Detention Center?

   You can send money to an inmate at Dona Ana County Detention Center through several methods: 1) Online using JPay, Access Corrections, or the facility's approved vendor, 2) Money orders mailed directly to the facility with the inmate's name and ID number, 3) Kiosks located in the facility lobby, or 4) Over the phone using a credit or debit card. Fees vary by method, typically ranging from $2.95 to $11.95 per transaction.

8. Can I schedule a video visit with an inmate at Dona Ana County Detention Center?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Dona Ana County Detention Center, video visits may be available through services like Penmate, Securus Video Connect, GTL, or ICSolutions. Video visits typically cost $10-20 for 20-30 minutes and must be scheduled in advance. You'll need a computer or smartphone with a camera and reliable internet connection. Contact the facility for their specific video visitation policies and approved vendors.

9. What identification do I need to visit an inmate at Dona Ana County Detention Center?

   All visitors must present valid government-issued photo identification such as a driver's license, state ID, passport, or military ID. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who can provide the minor's birth certificate. Some facilities require visitors to be on the inmate's approved visitation list, which may require a background check. Contact Dona Ana County Detention Center for specific ID requirements and visitor approval procedures.

10. How can I find out an inmate's release date?

    To find an inmate's release date at Dona Ana County Detention Center, you can: 1) Use the online inmate search tool if available, 2) Call the facility's records department, 3) Contact the inmate's case manager or counselor, or 4) Have the inmate provide this information during a call or visit. For privacy reasons, some facilities only release this information to immediate family members.

Programs & Services

Personal growth opportunities form the foundation of rehabilitation services at Dona Ana County Detention Center. The facility recognizes that meaningful change happens when inmates have access to structured learning environments and skill-building resources. Services typically focus on helping participants develop both practical abilities and personal coping strategies that support successful reintegration into their communities.

Educational services may provide inmates with opportunities to pursue basic literacy development and academic advancement. Distance learning options often allow participants to work toward educational goals at their own pace. Also, vocational training services typically include hands-on instruction in trades such as carpentry, giving inmates marketable skills for future employment. These programs often emphasize both technical competency and workplace readiness.

Therapeutic communities may offer structured environments where inmates can address underlying issues that contribute to criminal behavior. These services typically provide group counseling and peer support networks. Also, volunteer programs often connect inmates with community mentors and faith-based organizations. Support services frequently include life skills workshops and substance abuse counseling, helping participants develop healthier decision-making patterns and personal accountability.

Daily Life & Visitation

The housing units at Dona Ana County Detention Center feature dormitory-style accommodations and individual cells that shape how inmates navigate their confined environment. Inmates now follow structured daily routines that begin with early morning counts and regularly include scheduled meals, programming activities, and designated recreation periods. The facility typically operates on a predictable schedule that helps residents adapt to institutional life while maintaining security protocols throughout each day.

Living accommodations generally include basic furnishings such as beds, storage areas, and shared bathroom facilities within the housing units. Inmates typically receive three meals daily in designated dining areas, with menu options that meet basic nutritional requirements. Personal property allowances usually include essential items like clothing, hygiene products, and limited personal effects, while commissary services may provide additional items for purchase. However, all personal belongings must comply with facility security guidelines and storage limitations.

Also available are recreation opportunities that often include outdoor exercise time, indoor activities, and access to television viewing areas when scheduling permits. Work assignments within the facility typically provide structure and may include kitchen duties, maintenance tasks, or cleaning responsibilities. Programming schedules usually offer educational classes, counseling sessions, or other structured activities designed to support rehabilitation goals. Family connections remain important through visitation programs and telephone access, though these services generally operate within specific time frames and security procedures that help maintain facility operations while supporting inmate relationships with loved ones.