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Search New Mexico Inmate Records Online

Are New Mexico Inmate Records Open to the Public?

Yes. According to the New Mexico Inspection of Public Records Act, inmate records are accessible to the public, provided they do not disclose confidential methods, sources, or information about individuals accused but not charged with crimes. Therefore, anyone can access these records maintained by law enforcement agencies. For instance, the New Mexico Corrections Department offers a lookup tool that allows users to retrieve information on individuals in custody. To use this tool, one must know the inmate’s first and/or last name or NMCD Number.

New Mexico Inmate Search

New Mexico inmate records include details about individuals held in state or privately-run detention centers, jails, and prisons. These records typically contain:

  • Personal information: full name, age, and demographics.
  • Crime-related information: charges, sentence, custody status, DOC number, facility of incarceration, and release date or life sentence.

The New Mexico Corrections Department is the official custodian of these records and provides access upon request as per the New Mexico Inspection of Public Records Act. For inquiries about finding someone in jail, contact the Corrections Department at (505) 827-8645. Additionally, information about inmates in federal prisons can be obtained through the Federal Bureau of Prisons' inmate locator.

How to Conduct a New Mexico Jail Inmate Search

To search for inmates in New Mexico, one can use the inmate lookup tool available on the New Mexico Corrections Department website. This tool requires the inmate's full name or NMCD number to retrieve information. The search results will provide details about the inmate's custody status, sentence, and legal status. For more specific inquiries, contacting the Corrections Department directly is recommended.

Differences Between New Mexico State Prisons and County Jails

New Mexico's correctional facilities include state prisons and county jails, each managed by different authorities. State prisons are overseen by the New Mexico Department of Corrections and house individuals convicted of more serious offenses. These facilities offer various programs aimed at rehabilitation, including education and vocational training.

County jails, on the other hand, are managed by local county authorities and typically hold individuals awaiting trial or serving shorter sentences for less severe crimes. The primary difference lies in the level of jurisdiction and the nature of the offenses for which individuals are incarcerated.

Sending Money to an Inmate in New Mexico Prisons or Jails

Only individuals on an inmate's approved visitation list can send money to them. Funds must be sent via money order, including the inmate's full name, personal details, and their designated five-digit Corrections number. The money is deposited into the inmate's commissary account, which they can use for purchases within the facility.

For sending items other than money, it is advisable to contact the jail staff at the inmate's facility to understand the guidelines. Items that do not meet suitability requirements may be confiscated or returned to the sender if a return address is provided.

How to Contact Inmates in New Mexico Prisons and Jails

Inmates are generally not allowed to use electronic correspondence such as phone calls or emails. However, they may receive mail. The requirements for sending mail vary by facility, so it is best to contact the institution's corrections staff for specific guidelines.

State guidelines mandate that inmate letters be written on single-layer paper and mailed in similar envelopes. Padded, colored, or embellished papers and envelopes are discouraged. Mail should be addressed using the inmate's full name and designated NMDC number, sent to the P.O. Box of the facility where they are housed.

Getting Approved for Inmate Visitation in New Mexico Prisons and Jails

Visitation guidelines and schedules are facility-specific, but general criteria and procedures are established by the state corrections department. Intending visitors must complete an application form and await approval. Approved visitors will receive a permanent visiting card after the initial 30-day period.

Special visits may be granted to one-time visitors, prospective employers, and law enforcement agents, who must submit a special visit request form. Attorneys are required to provide a 24-hour notice before visiting. Non-adult visitors must be accompanied by approved adults.

How to Locate Someone Incarcerated in New Mexico

To locate someone in New Mexico, one can use the inmate lookup tools available on law enforcement websites. These tools typically require the inmate's name or identification number. For additional information, contacting the Corrections Department or the Federal Bureau of Prisons is advisable.

County Sheriff’s websites also offer inmate rosters that can be searched by inmate number, name, gender, age range, or release date. If the inmate is not found in state or county facilities, checking federal prisons is recommended.

Finding a County Inmate Roster in New Mexico

County websites often provide inmate rosters. For example, Sandoval County's Detention Center Department and San Miguel County Sheriff's website offer inmate lookup tools. These rosters can be searched by various criteria, including inmate number, name, and gender.

For specific inquiries, it is best to contact the county office where the inmate is housed. This ensures access to the most accurate and up-to-date information.

How to Conduct a New Mexico Prison Inmate Search

To perform a New Mexico prison inmate search, use the inmate lookup tool on the New Mexico Corrections Department website. This tool requires the inmate's full name or NMCD number. Alternatively, information can be obtained by calling (505) 383-2804.

For details not available through these channels, contacting the facility where the inmate is housed is recommended. The Corrections Department can also provide additional assistance.

How to Find an Inmate’s Release Date in New Mexico

To find an inmate's release date, contact the facility where the inmate is held. The Sheriff's Office in the county where a county jail inmate is held can also provide this information. If disclosing the release date compromises the inmate's safety, access may be restricted to immediate family, attorneys, and authorized officials.

Using the New Mexico locator available on law enforcement websites can also help find release dates. This tool provides a convenient way to access this information.

Facilities Managed by the New Mexico Department of Corrections

The New Mexico Corrections Department oversees various state-operated and privately-owned facilities. These include:

  • Central New Mexico Correctional Facility - Level I and II
  • Penitentiary of New Mexico
  • Roswell Correctional Center
  • Springer Correctional Center
  • Southern New Mexico Correctional Facility
  • Western New Mexico Correctional Facility
  • Guadalupe County Correctional Facility (The Geo Group, Inc.)
  • Lea County Correctional Facility (The Geo Group, Inc.)
  • Northeast New Mexico Detention Facility (The Geo Group, Inc.)
  • Northwest New Mexico Correctional Center (CoreCivic)
  • Otero County Prison Facility

For specific inquiries, contact the respective facility directly.

Search Inmate Records in New Mexico