How to Check If Someone Was Released from MDC and Avoid Release Scams

Trying to find out if someone was released from the Metropolitan Detention Center (MDC)? The fastest official option is Bernalillo County's releaselist page, which shows everyone released within the past two weeks.

Bernalillo County maintains an official "releaselist" page with a running list of inmates released within the past two weeks. If the person you're looking for was recently released from custody in Bernalillo County, start here. It's built specifically for recent release confirmations.

1. Open Bernalillo County’s releaselist page - It is the county’s public list of inmates released within the past two weeks.
2. Use the page’s search box first - Type the person’s last name (or first name) to filter the list down quickly.
3. Try a few name variations - If you do not see them right away, try a different spelling, a shortened first name, or searching by last name only.
4. Confirm you are looking at the right entry - Many names are common. Look at the full name shown on the list and make sure it matches the person you are checking.
5. Check the release date field - The list includes a release date, which helps you confirm the timing.
6. Keep the “past two weeks” limit in mind - If you cannot find them, it may mean they were not released in that window (or you may need to verify directly with MDC).

MDC has issued a specific warning for families: scammers are targeting relatives of MDC inmates and offering releases in exchange for cash. MDC also states it will NEVER call you asking for money to release an inmate. If someone contacts you claiming they can "get them out" for a fee, treat it as a scam. Don't engage with the caller. Verify through official channels instead.

If Suspicious

• ✓ Do not send money, gift cards, or any form of payment to a caller claiming they can “release” someone.
• ✓ Write down what happened right away (caller’s number, what they asked for, any names they used).
• ✓ Verify directly with MDC using the main phone number (505) 839-8700.
• ✓ If you prefer email or need to share details in writing, contact MDC at mdc@bernco.gov.
• ✓ If you are calling for verification, the MDC Information Desk is staffed daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

1. End the call or stop messaging - Do not argue or negotiate. The goal is to stop the pressure and protect your money and personal information.
2. Document the details - Save the number, take screenshots if applicable, and write down exactly what they claimed.
3. Verify with MDC directly - Call (505) 839-8700 to check what is actually going on.
4. Send the details by email if needed - Email mdc@bernco.gov with the number used and a short summary of what the caller said.

Don't see the person on the releaselist? Start with the simplest explanation: the list only covers the past two weeks. If you still need confirmation, contact MDC directly. The MDC Information Desk is staffed daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. For non-urgent administrative questions, MDC administrative offices are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

1. Re-check the releaselist time window - Make sure the release you are looking for would fall within the past two weeks.
2. Call MDC to verify - Use (505) 839-8700 and try during Information Desk hours (daily, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.).
3. Email if you need to provide details in writing - Send your question to mdc@bernco.gov.
4. Use administrative office hours for non-urgent follow-up - Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Quick Contact

• ✓ Address: 100 Deputy Dean Miera Dr. SW, Albuquerque, NM 87151
• ✓ Phone: (505) 839-8700
• ✓ Email: mdc@bernco.gov
• ✓ MDC Information Desk hours: daily, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• ✓ Administrative office hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.