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 US Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at US Immigration and Customs Enforcement 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 US Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

Frequently asked questions about US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

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 US Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to US Immigration and Customs Enforcement?

   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 US Immigration and Customs Enforcement?

   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 US Immigration and Customs Enforcement. 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 US Immigration and Customs Enforcement. 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 US Immigration and Customs Enforcement?

   Mailing address:

   US Immigration and Customs Enforcement
   1115 N Imperial Ave
   El Centro, CA 92243
   Phone: (760) 336-4600

5. What are the visiting hours at US Immigration and Customs Enforcement?

   Visiting hours at US Immigration and Customs Enforcement 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 (760) 336-4600 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 US Immigration and Customs Enforcement?

   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 US Immigration and Customs Enforcement for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at US Immigration and Customs Enforcement?

   You can send money to an inmate at US Immigration and Customs Enforcement 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 US Immigration and Customs Enforcement?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At US Immigration and Customs Enforcement, 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 US Immigration and Customs Enforcement?

   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 US Immigration and Customs Enforcement 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 US Immigration and Customs Enforcement, 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

Based on the facility's commitment to supporting educational advancement, El Centro Detention Facility provides scholarship opportunities for students, reflecting a broader approach to community investment and educational support. The facility operates under the management of GEO Group on behalf of the U.S. Marshals Service, providing comprehensive housing, security, transportation, medical services, and food services for individuals in federal custody.

The facility typically offers educational programming that may include basic literacy courses, GED preparation, and adult education classes to help individuals work toward academic goals during their time in custody. Vocational training opportunities often focus on practical skills development, potentially including computer literacy, job readiness workshops, and certificate programs that can support successful reintegration. Medical services are provided on-site, which may encompass routine healthcare, mental health counseling, and substance abuse treatment programs designed to address underlying issues that contribute to criminal behavior.

Support services at the facility often include case management assistance, reentry planning, and connections to community resources that can help individuals transition back into society. Religious services and recreational activities are typically available to promote personal development and maintain physical and mental well-being. The facility may also coordinate with local organizations to provide additional programming, though specific partnerships would depend on community availability and operational agreements with the U.S. Marshals Service.

Daily Life & Visitation

The 512-capacity facility on North Imperial Avenue operates under the oversight of the U.S. Marshals Service, providing comprehensive housing and support services for individuals in federal custody. Residents typically begin their day with early morning counts and meal service, followed by structured periods that may include medical appointments, legal consultations, and limited recreational activities. The facility's location in El Centro allows for coordination with federal court proceedings, meaning some individuals may have scheduled transportation for legal appearances throughout the week.

Communication with family and legal representatives often follows federal detention standards, which typically include scheduled phone access and video visitation opportunities. The facility generally provides medical services as part of its comprehensive support operations, ensuring that health needs are addressed during an individual's stay. Meal services are provided regularly throughout the day, with food preparation following federal guidelines for nutritional standards and dietary accommodations when medically necessary.

Given the facility's role in housing individuals for the U.S. Marshals Service, the daily environment tends to focus on maintaining security while facilitating legal processes. Educational or vocational programming may be limited due to the typically shorter-term nature of federal detention, though basic services like library access and religious services are commonly available. The structured daily routine helps maintain order while individuals navigate their legal proceedings, with staff trained to provide the various support services outlined in the facility's operational scope.