What to Expect When You Arrive: Security Screening at Western New Mexico C.F.
Visiting someone at Western New Mexico C.F.? Security screening starts before you reach the visiting room. Here's what to expect—and what happens if staff suspect contraband.
Every visitor goes through security screening. You'll walk through a metal detector and possibly controlled-substance detection equipment. Drug-sniffing dogs may also screen you before entry.
Beyond the equipment, staff will ask you questions at the entry point. They're checking for contraband before letting you onto institutional grounds.
Alcohol and controlled substances are never allowed on Department property. Using, possessing, or trying to bring in any contraband during a visit is treated as a serious violation immediately.
Warning: If you use, possess, or try to introduce alcohol, controlled substances, or other contraband while visiting, you can be reported to local law enforcement and removed from Department property.
Once you step onto institutional grounds, search rules apply at any time. This isn't meant to intimidate - it's the baseline security policy you agree to by entering.
Before visiting, you'll read and sign the Visitor Statement of Understanding (CD-100201.A). This document spells out the search policy, including that you may be searched as a condition of entry.
Strip searches aren't ordered casually. The Warden must determine there's probable cause first. If one is ordered, a same-sex employee conducts it in a private area with as much privacy as possible.
Note: If you refuse to submit to a strip search, your visit will be cancelled or suspended.
Practical Prep Tips
- ✓ Be ready to pass through a metal detector and/or controlled-substance detection equipment, or to be screened by detection dogs.
- ✓ Expect questions at the point of entry about whether you have contraband.
Not sure if something you're bringing could count as contraband? Check before you arrive - don't guess at the gate. And remember the paperwork: you'll need to read and sign the Visitor Statement of Understanding (CD-100201.A) before any visit.
Reminder: Search rules can be enforced at any time on institutional grounds. A strip search may be ordered only with probable cause as determined by the Warden, and refusing a strip search means your visit will be cancelled or suspended.
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