What to Expect During Security Screening at PNM
Security screening at the Penitentiary of New Mexico (PNM) can feel intimidating your first time—especially if you don't know what to expect. Here's what the facility says happens, from the front door through anywhere on institutional grounds.
When you arrive at PNM, staff will ask you questions at the entry point. The goal is simple: they're checking for contraband. Before you're allowed in, you'll be told you may be searched and asked to sign a statement acknowledging that. If you'd rather not proceed, you can leave - you won't be searched, and staff will escort you off institutional grounds immediately.
Screening may also involve detection tools. According to the facility's visitor statement, this can include the New Mexico Corrections Department Canine Unit (dogs trained to detect controlled substances) and mechanical drug-detection devices. If you see these in use, don't be alarmed - it's part of the normal entry process.
Here's something that surprises people: screening doesn't stop once you're past the entrance. PNM's visiting rules state that search regulations may be enforced at any time while you're on institutional grounds. Assume the rules apply from the moment you arrive until you leave.
Strip searches are handled differently from routine screening. Under facility rules, a visitor may only be asked to remove clothing for a strip search when the Warden determines there's probable cause to believe that specific visitor has contraband. That probable-cause requirement is the stated threshold for this level of search.
- ✓ If a strip search is ordered, it must be conducted by an employee of the same sex as the visitor.
- ✓ The search must take place in an area that provides the visitor the greatest possible privacy.
Wondering what's allowed and what to expect? PNM policy requires that written visitation procedure information be provided to inmates within 24 hours of arrival. This covers the basics: visiting days and hours, dress code, ID requirements, items allowed in the visiting room, and rules for children.
If you're asked to submit to a strip search and refuse, the facility's rules say your visit will be cancelled or suspended. And if you decide before entry that you'd rather not go through screening, you can leave - you won't be searched, and staff will escort you off institutional grounds immediately.
Bringing contraband into a correctional facility isn't just a rule violation - it's a crime. PNM's visitor statement says it is a violation of New Mexico law to introduce or attempt to introduce contraband, including weapons, ammunition, alcohol, currency, explosives, or controlled substances, into the facility. Even attempting to bring prohibited items can jeopardize your visit, your future visiting privileges, and lead to serious legal consequences.
Tips Prepare
- ✓ Expect questions at the point of entry about whether you have contraband.
- ✓ Be ready to sign an acknowledgement before entering that you may be subject to a search.
- ✓ If you’re not comfortable proceeding, you can choose not to enter; you won’t be searched and you’ll be escorted off institutional grounds.
- ✓ Assume detection tools may be used during screening, including canine units and/or mechanical drug-detection devices.
Note: Unsure about current procedures? Ask your loved one to check the written visitation information the facility provides within 24 hours of arrival, or confirm details with PNM before you go.
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