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 Eddy County Detention Center.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Eddy 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 Eddy County Detention Center.

Frequently asked questions about Eddy 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 Eddy County Detention Center.

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

   Mailing address:

   Eddy County Detention Center
   201 N Main St
   Carlsbad, NM 88220
   Phone: (575) 887-7556

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

   Visiting hours at Eddy 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) 887-7556 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 Eddy 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 Eddy County Detention Center for their specific mail policies.

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

   You can send money to an inmate at Eddy 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 Eddy County Detention Center?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Eddy 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 Eddy 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 Eddy 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 Eddy 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

Therapeutic communities form the foundation of rehabilitation efforts, where residents participate in structured environments designed to address underlying behavioral patterns and substance abuse issues. These communities typically emphasize peer support and accountability, allowing participants to develop healthy coping mechanisms while working through personal challenges. The approach often includes group counseling sessions and individual therapy, creating a comprehensive support network that extends beyond traditional incarceration models.

Educational initiatives may deliver basic literacy programs, GED preparation courses, and computer skills training to help residents build essential academic foundations. Furthermore, vocational training opportunities often include construction trades, automotive maintenance, and food service preparation, providing residents with marketable skills for post-release employment. These programs typically combine classroom instruction with hands-on experience, allowing participants to earn industry-recognized certifications that enhance their job prospects upon reentry into the community.

Support services encompass a broad range of specialized initiatives designed to address diverse resident needs and backgrounds. Communication skills workshops help participants develop professional interaction abilities, while community service projects may offer opportunities to contribute positively to local organizations and build civic responsibility. Veteran services typically provide targeted support for former military personnel, addressing comprehensive challenges related to service-connected issues and transition difficulties. Additionally, landscaping programs often allow residents to develop horticultural skills while maintaining facility grounds, combining practical training with therapeutic outdoor activity that promotes both physical wellness and environmental stewardship.

Daily Life & Visitation

Structure forms the backbone of every day, with carefully planned schedules that residents at present follow to maintain order and predictability. The facility actively implements consistent routines that typically begin with early morning wake-up calls, followed by cell inspections and preparation for the day ahead. Count times occur regularly throughout each day, ensuring all residents are accounted for while maintaining the security protocols necessary for safe operations.

Living accommodations generally consist of housing units designed to provide basic necessities while maintaining appropriate security measures. Residents typically share cells or dormitory-style housing, depending on their classification level and the facility’s current capacity. Personal property allowances usually include essential items such as clothing, hygiene products, and limited personal effects that meet security guidelines. Furthermore, the commissary system allows residents to purchase additional approved items using funds from their accounts, which family members may contribute to through established procedures.

Programming schedules deliver structured activities that may include educational classes, vocational training opportunities, and religious services throughout the week. Recreation time often includes access to outdoor areas for exercise, indoor recreational activities, and television viewing in common areas. Although visitation policies typically require advance scheduling and adherence to specific guidelines, these sessions provide crucial connections between residents and their families. Work assignments within the facility usually offer residents the opportunity to contribute to daily operations while developing job skills, with positions that may include kitchen duties, maintenance tasks, and facility cleaning responsibilities.