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 New Mexico Corrections Department.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at New Mexico Corrections Department 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 New Mexico Corrections Department.

Frequently asked questions about New Mexico Corrections Department

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 New Mexico Corrections Department.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to New Mexico Corrections Department?

   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 New Mexico Corrections Department?

   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 New Mexico Corrections Department. 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 New Mexico Corrections Department. 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 New Mexico Corrections Department?

   Mailing address:

   New Mexico Corrections Department
   2111 Lobo Canyon Rd
   Grants, NM 87020
   Phone: (505) 876-8300

5. What are the visiting hours at New Mexico Corrections Department?

   Visiting hours at New Mexico Corrections Department 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) 876-8300 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 New Mexico Corrections Department?

   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 New Mexico Corrections Department for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at New Mexico Corrections Department?

   You can send money to an inmate at New Mexico Corrections Department 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 New Mexico Corrections Department?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At New Mexico Corrections Department, 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 New Mexico Corrections Department?

   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 New Mexico Corrections Department 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 New Mexico Corrections Department, 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 Grant County Detention Center operates with a comprehensive mission centered on sound correctional practices and community partnerships, establishing a foundation for diverse programming that serves its ethnically diverse population. The facility's commitment to excellence in public safety extends to providing structured offender programs designed to support rehabilitation and successful reintegration into the community.

Educational and vocational programming typically forms a cornerstone of services at county detention facilities in New Mexico. The Grant County Detention Center may offer basic education classes including GED preparation, adult literacy programs, and life skills training to help inmates develop essential competencies. Vocational training opportunities often include job readiness workshops, basic computer skills, and trades-oriented instruction that align with regional employment opportunities in the Silver City area. These educational initiatives are frequently supplemented by counseling services that may address substance abuse, anger management, and mental health support through individual and group therapy sessions.

Healthcare services represent another critical component of the facility's operations, with medical and mental health care provided to address the diverse needs of the inmate population. The detention center's emphasis on community partnerships likely extends to collaboration with local organizations that may provide additional support services such as reentry planning, family counseling, and connections to community resources upon release. Religious and spiritual programs are commonly available, offering chaplaincy services and faith-based programming that supports inmates' personal development and provides additional counseling resources during incarceration.

Daily Life & Visitation

The Grant County Detention Center operates under a mission focused on safety, security, and professionalism while serving an ethnically diverse population at its facility located on South Ridge Road in Silver City, New Mexico. Under the administration of Detention Administrator Joseph Andazola, the facility maintains structured daily operations that typically begin with early morning counts and meal service, followed by scheduled programming activities and work assignments throughout the day.

Inmates at the Grant County facility may participate in various offender programs designed to support rehabilitation and skill development, though specific program details vary based on individual needs and security classifications. The facility emphasizes sound correctional practices and policies that often include educational opportunities, vocational training, and counseling services. Daily routines typically incorporate structured meal times, recreation periods, and programming sessions, with evenings generally reserved for additional programming or personal time before evening counts and lockdown procedures.

Family connections remain an important aspect of daily life, with the facility likely offering scheduled visitation periods and communication options such as phone calls and correspondence. The detention center's commitment to establishing community partnerships may provide additional support services and programming opportunities for inmates. Healthcare services are available on-site, ensuring that medical and mental health needs are addressed as part of the daily operations. Those seeking to contact an inmate or obtain information about facility procedures can reach the detention center at 575-534-3803 or contact the administration office directly.