Dona Ana County Detention Center Overview

The Dona Ana County Detention Center is a county jail located in Las Cruces, New Mexico, serving the needs of both male and female inmates. The facility primarily holds individuals awaiting trial or serving short-term sentences, as well as those detained for immigration-related issues. With a capacity of over 800 inmates, the Dona Ana County Detention Center plays a critical role in maintaining public safety and ensuring the secure holding of detainees across a range of security classifications. This detention center is operated by the Dona Ana County government and ensures inmates have access to necessary resources, including medical care, educational programs, and visitation rights.

 

Dona Ana County Detention Center

Dona Ana County Detention Center Contact Information, Address, Email, and Telephone Number

For anyone needing to get in touch with the Dona Ana County Detention Center, here are the contact details:

Address:
Dona Ana County Detention Center
1850 Copper Loop
Las Cruces, NM 88005

Telephone Number:
Main: (575) 647-7600
Booking: (575) 647-7602

Email:
detention@donaanacounty.org (for general inquiries)

The facility is centrally located within Las Cruces, making it accessible for visitors, legal representatives, and other county personnel.

Visiting Information for Dona Ana County Detention Center

Visiting inmates at the Dona Ana County Detention Center is a structured process designed to ensure the safety and security of both detainees and visitors. Visitation is typically held multiple days a week, with set time slots based on the inmate’s housing unit.

  • Visitation Hours:

    • Monday to Friday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
    • Weekends: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
  • What to Bring to a Visit:
    Visitors should bring a valid government-issued ID such as a driver’s license or passport. No personal items such as bags, cell phones, or electronic devices are allowed in the visitation area.

  • What Visits Are Like:
    The Dona Ana County Detention Center offers both on-site and remote video visitation, allowing family and friends to interact with inmates through a secure, monitored process. Visits generally last 30 minutes, but can be extended based on circumstances and availability. The visiting environment is respectful, ensuring detainees have an opportunity to maintain family ties, which is crucial for mental and emotional well-being.

How to Book a Visit at Dona Ana County Detention Center

Booking a visit to the Dona Ana County Detention Center is simple but must be done in advance. Here’s how you can schedule a visit:

  • Online Booking:
    Visit the facility’s online visitation system, which can be accessed through the official Dona Ana County website. You’ll need the inmate’s booking number and personal information to complete the booking.

  • Phone Booking:
    Call (575) 647-7600 and request assistance in scheduling an in-person or video visit. Be prepared to provide the inmate’s details and your preferred visitation time.

  • What You Need to Book a Visit:

    • The inmate’s full name and booking number.
    • Your valid government-issued ID.
    • In some cases, a pre-approval process may be required, so it’s best to schedule your visit well in advance.
  • Number of Visitors Allowed:
    Each inmate is typically allowed two adult visitors at a time, with up to three children. Children under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

Directions and Parking Information for Dona Ana County Detention Center

If you are visiting the Dona Ana County Detention Center, here’s how to get there:

  • By Car:
    The detention center is located at 1850 Copper Loop, just off NM-478. From the I-10, exit at Avenida de Mesilla and head northeast. Follow the signs to reach Copper Loop. There is ample parking available for visitors directly outside the facility.

  • Public Transportation:
    Public transit options are limited, so driving or using a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft is recommended for those without access to a personal vehicle.

  • Parking:
    Free visitor parking is available on site. Be sure to arrive early, especially on weekends or holidays, as parking spots can fill up quickly.

What is Dona Ana County Detention Center Like for a Prisoner?

Life at the Dona Ana County Detention Center is structured to balance security needs with humane treatment. Inmates have access to basic necessities, including meals, clothing, and medical care. Educational programs, such as GED preparation and vocational training, are available to help detainees improve their skills while incarcerated. The facility also offers religious services and mental health counseling.

Overcrowding can occasionally be an issue, but the staff at Dona Ana County Detention Center works diligently to maintain safety and order. Detainees are housed according to security risk, and cells range from open dormitory-style units to more secure, individual cells.

The most recent news regarding the facility includes increased emphasis on rehabilitation programs, a heightened focus on mental health support for inmates, and an expansion of video visitation options to maintain connections with loved ones during the pandemic.

Famous Prisoners at Dona Ana County Detention Center

While Dona Ana County Detention Center may not be widely known for holding high-profile inmates, it has occasionally housed individuals involved in significant criminal cases, including those related to drug trafficking, violent offenses, and high-stakes immigration violations. Local media sometimes highlights notorious detainees when there are major trials in the area, but the facility’s primary focus remains on managing the inmate population responsibly and securely.

 

FAQs About Dona Ana County Detention Center

1. What is the visitation schedule at Dona Ana County Detention Center?
Visitation hours are Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM, with weekend visits from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

2. How do I book a visit at Dona Ana County Detention Center?
Visits can be scheduled online through the Dona Ana County Detention Center’s website or by calling (575) 647-7600. You’ll need the inmate’s booking number to reserve a time.

3. Where is Dona Ana County Detention Center located?
The facility is located at 1850 Copper Loop, Las Cruces, NM 88005.

4. What type of inmates does Dona Ana County Detention Center hold?
The detention center houses both male and female inmates, primarily those awaiting trial, serving short-term sentences, or detained for immigration issues.

5. Can I send mail to an inmate at Dona Ana County Detention Center?
Yes, mail can be sent to inmates. The mailing address is the same as the facility’s address, but ensure to include the inmate’s booking number.

6. Are there video visitation options at Dona Ana County Detention Center?
Yes, video visits are available both on-site and remotely via the facility’s online system.

7. What items are allowed during visitation?
Visitors are only allowed to bring valid identification; no personal items, including cell phones or bags, are permitted in the visitation area.

8. What educational programs are offered to inmates?
Inmates can participate in GED courses, vocational training, and other rehabilitative programs aimed at personal development.

9. Does Dona Ana County Detention Center offer mental health services?
Yes, mental health counseling and support are available to inmates in need of such services.

10. Is there parking available at Dona Ana County Detention Center?
Yes, free parking is available for visitors directly outside the facility.

Conclusion

The Dona Ana County Detention Center is a key facility in the New Mexico detention system, providing safe housing and essential services to male and female inmates. Whether you’re visiting a loved one or looking for more information on the facility’s operations, the Dona Ana County Detention Center strives to maintain a secure yet humane environment. Be sure to familiarize yourself with their visitation process and the resources available to inmates.

For more detailed information on inmate services and current news, you can visit the official Dona Ana County website.


Sources:

Visit Dickinson County Jail