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 Torrance County Detention Fac.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Torrance County Detention Fac 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 Torrance County Detention Fac.

Frequently asked questions about Torrance County Detention Fac

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 Torrance County Detention Fac.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Torrance County Detention Fac?

   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 Torrance County Detention Fac?

   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 Torrance County Detention Fac. 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 Torrance County Detention Fac. 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 Torrance County Detention Fac?

   Mailing address:

   Torrance County Detention Fac
   209 E Allen Ayers Rd
   Estancia, NM 87016
   Phone: (505) 384-2711

5. What are the visiting hours at Torrance County Detention Fac?

   Visiting hours at Torrance County Detention Fac 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) 384-2711 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 Torrance County Detention Fac?

   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 Torrance County Detention Fac for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Torrance County Detention Fac?

   You can send money to an inmate at Torrance County Detention Fac 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 Torrance County Detention Fac?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Torrance County Detention Fac, 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 Torrance County Detention Fac?

   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 Torrance County Detention Fac 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 Torrance County Detention Fac, 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

A wide spectrum of developmental opportunities creates pathways for personal growth and skill building at Torrance County Detention. The facility typically emphasizes a comprehensive approach that addresses educational advancement, vocational preparation, and personal development needs. This multi-faceted programming philosophy recognizes that individuals benefit most when opportunities address various aspects of their lives and future goals.

Educational opportunities often include basic literacy programs and GED preparation courses designed to help individuals complete their high school equivalency. Additionally, vocational training may offer hands-on skill development in trades that provide marketable abilities upon release. These educational and vocational components typically work together to create a foundation for employment readiness and continued learning.

Support services and therapeutic opportunities often encompass several important areas of personal development. Grief counseling may provide individuals with tools to process loss and trauma in healthy ways. Additionally, therapeutic communities typically create structured environments where participants can practice positive social interactions and accountability. Parenting classes often help individuals develop or strengthen family relationship skills, while healthy relationships programming may address communication and conflict resolution. Community service opportunities typically allow individuals to contribute meaningfully while developing work habits and civic responsibility.

Daily Life & Visitation

The sound of morning announcements typically marks the beginning of each day for individuals housed within the facility’s walls. At present, the daily routine revolves around structured meal times, count procedures, and scheduled activities that actively maintain order and provide opportunities for personal development. Wake-up generally occurs in the early morning hours, followed by breakfast service and the day’s established security count.

Living accommodations vary throughout the housing units, with individuals typically assigned to dormitory-style or cell-based housing depending on classification levels and available space. Each person usually receives basic bedding, personal hygiene items, and limited storage space for approved personal property. Additionally, the facility generally provides access to commissary services where individuals may purchase additional food items, hygiene products, and writing materials using funds from their accounts.

While daily schedules offer structure through work assignments, educational programming, and recreational periods, individuals also maintain connections with family members through scheduled visitation and telephone privileges. Recreation opportunities typically include outdoor yard time, indoor common areas, and access to reading materials or television programming during designated hours. Furthermore, various work assignments throughout the facility may include kitchen duties, maintenance tasks, and cleaning responsibilities that help individuals stay productive while contributing to daily operations.