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 Metropolitan Detention Center.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Metropolitan 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 Metropolitan Detention Center.

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

   Mailing address:

   Metropolitan Detention Center
   100 Deputy Dean Miera Dr SW
   Albuquerque, NM 87151
   Phone: (505) 839-8700

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
   • Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
   • Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
   • Thursday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
   • Friday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
   • Saturday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
   • Sunday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM

5. What are the visiting hours at Metropolitan Detention Center?

   Visiting hours at Metropolitan 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 (505) 839-8700 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 Metropolitan 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 Metropolitan Detention Center for their specific mail policies.

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

   You can send money to an inmate at Metropolitan 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 Metropolitan Detention Center?

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

The Resource Re-entry Center serves as the primary gateway for individuals transitioning from the Metropolitan Detention Center back into the community, reflecting the facility’s commitment to supporting successful reintegration. This specialized center typically provides essential resources and connections to community services that may help reduce recidivism and support long-term stability. The facility has also modernized its communication systems, implementing digital mail delivery through tablets, which may enhance inmates’ ability to maintain family connections and access educational materials during their incarceration.

Educational and vocational programming at the Metropolitan Detention Center often includes basic literacy courses, GED preparation, and job readiness training designed to improve employment prospects upon release. The facility may offer substance abuse counseling programs, mental health services, and life skills workshops that address common challenges faced by the incarcerated population. Religious services and chaplaincy programs are typically available to provide spiritual support, while library services may offer access to legal research materials and recreational reading through the new digital platform.

Support services extend beyond the facility walls through various reentry initiatives that may include job placement assistance, housing referrals, and connections to community-based organizations. The facility often provides medical and mental health care to address immediate health needs, and counseling services may help inmates develop coping strategies and address underlying issues contributing to criminal behavior. Family visitation programs and communication services, including the newly implemented digital mail system, typically aim to maintain important relationships that can serve as stabilizing factors during the reintegration process.

Daily Life & Visitation

The Bernalillo County Metropolitan Detention Center operates under structured schedules that guide inmate routines, with administrative offices maintaining regular business hours from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, while the MDC Information Desk extends availability until 8 p.m. daily to assist families and visitors. Located at 100 Deputy Dean Miera Drive SW in Albuquerque, the facility has recently implemented significant changes to its communication systems, including a digital mail delivery system that became effective July 18, 2025, replacing traditional physical mail with scanned digital copies accessible through tablets.

Inmates at MDC typically follow regimented daily schedules that may include designated meal times, recreational periods, and program participation opportunities. The facility’s structured environment often incorporates educational programming, work assignments, and counseling services as part of standard correctional operations. Family connections remain important, with the facility providing various means of communication and support through its information desk services and account deposit systems, including a convenient kiosk located at Alvarado Square for families to add funds to inmate accounts using debit cards, credit cards, or exact cash amounts.

The transition to digital communication systems reflects modern correctional practices, though it represents a significant change for both inmates and their families who must adapt to new mailing procedures and guidelines. The facility’s Resource Re-entry Center serves as an important established stop for individuals upon release, typically providing essential services and support to help with community reintegration. These operational changes and services demonstrate the facility’s efforts to balance security requirements with maintaining family connections and preparing inmates for eventual return to the community.