Mescalero Correctional Center Overview

The Mescalero Correctional Center is a tribal detention facility located on the Mescalero Apache Reservation in New Mexico. It is operated under the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) and serves the tribal community by housing individuals who have committed offenses within the jurisdiction of tribal law. This facility primarily holds male and female adult inmates, both pre-trial detainees and sentenced offenders, who have violated tribal laws. Additionally, federal prisoners involved in crimes under Indian Country jurisdiction may also be housed here.

As part of its mission, the Mescalero Correctional Center provides a secure environment while offering rehabilitative programs to help reintegrate inmates into society. It plays a crucial role in maintaining justice and order within the tribal community.

Mescalero Correctional Center

Contact Information for Mescalero Correctional Center

Address:
Mescalero Correctional Center
212 Apache Blvd, Mescalero, NM 88340

Phone Number:
(575) 671-4479

Email:
For specific inquiries, contact the Mescalero Apache Tribal office via their official website.

Visiting Information at Mescalero Correctional Center

Visiting an inmate at the Mescalero Correctional Center can be an essential part of their rehabilitation process. Visits allow families and friends to maintain relationships and offer support. Before visiting, it is important to follow these guidelines:

  • Visiting Days: Typically, visitation is available on weekends. However, you must confirm specific times with the facility by calling in advance.
  • What to Bring: Visitors should bring a government-issued ID, such as a driver’s license or passport. Personal items like bags, electronics, and cell phones are not allowed inside.
  • Duration of Visits: Visits are generally scheduled for 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the facility’s rules and the number of visitors.

Note: All visitors must pass a background check and adhere to the facility’s dress code.

How to Book a Visit at Mescalero Correctional Center

To book a visit at the Mescalero Correctional Center, you need to follow these steps:

  1. Contact the Facility: Call (575) 671-4479 to inquire about visiting hours and available slots.
  2. Provide Necessary Information: You’ll need to supply the inmate’s full name, ID number, and your personal details for a background check.
  3. Prepare for Screening: All visitors will be subject to a security check upon entry. Make sure to bring a valid form of identification.

Only a limited number of visitors are allowed at a time, and bookings may fill up quickly, so it is advisable to plan your visit well in advance.

Directions and Parking Information for Mescalero Correctional Center

The Mescalero Correctional Center is located in the heart of the Mescalero Apache Reservation, approximately 40 miles east of Alamogordo, New Mexico. To get there:

  • From Alamogordo, take U.S. Route 70 east and follow signs to Mescalero.
  • The facility is situated at 212 Apache Blvd, easy to access from the main roads.

Parking is available on-site, and there is no cost for visitors.

Life Inside Mescalero Correctional Center

Life inside the Mescalero Correctional Center can be challenging for inmates, as they face the consequences of their actions while navigating a structured environment. The facility offers basic education programs and vocational training, aiming to prepare inmates for a productive life post-release. Efforts are also made to accommodate cultural traditions important to the Mescalero Apache people.

Recent updates in 2024 show that the facility is expanding to better meet the needs of the tribal community. New programs are being introduced to enhance inmate rehabilitation and offer more support for mental health and addiction treatment.

Famous Prisoners at Mescalero Correctional Center

Though the Mescalero Correctional Center primarily handles tribal and local cases, it has occasionally housed inmates involved in higher-profile federal cases related to crimes on Indian land. For instance, Jeremy Dennis, a member of the Mescalero Apache Tribe, was recently sentenced to four years for assaulting a federal officer. His case drew attention due to its severity and involvement of federal law

FAQs About Mescalero Correctional Center

  • Where is Mescalero Correctional Center located?
    Mescalero Correctional Center is located at 212 Apache Blvd, Mescalero, NM 88340.

  • How can I contact Mescalero Correctional Center?
    You can contact the facility by phone at (575) 671-4479.

  • How do I book a visit to Mescalero Correctional Center?
    To book a visit, call the facility directly, provide the inmate’s information, and pass a background check.

  • What are the visiting hours at Mescalero Correctional Center?
    Visiting hours are typically on weekends, but it’s essential to confirm by calling ahead.

  • What items are prohibited during a visit?
    Visitors cannot bring personal items like bags, cell phones, or electronics into the facility.

  • What is life like for inmates at Mescalero Correctional Center?
    Inmates engage in educational and vocational training programs aimed at rehabilitation and reintegration.

  • Does Mescalero Correctional Center offer rehabilitation programs?
    Yes, the facility offers a variety of programs, including mental health support and vocational training.

  • How can I send mail to an inmate at Mescalero Correctional Center?
    Mail should be addressed to the inmate at 212 Apache Blvd, Mescalero, NM 88340.

  • Are there any famous inmates who have served time at Mescalero Correctional Center?
    Notably, Jeremy Dennis, involved in a federal officer assault case, served time here.

  • Can inmates make phone calls from Mescalero Correctional Center?
    Yes, inmates have access to phones, but all calls are monitored.

Conclusion

The Mescalero Correctional Center plays a vital role in the Mescalero Apache community, offering both detention services and rehabilitative programs. As a tribal facility, it operates under distinct legal guidelines, focusing on restoring individuals to society. Whether you are visiting a loved one or interested in learning more about the facility, it is important to familiarize yourself with their specific rules and regulations to ensure a smooth experience.

For more information, visit the Mescalero Apache Tribe’s official website

Sources:

Visit Merrimack County Department of Corrections