Searching for someone in detention
How to find information about a loved one in detention
When someone is detained, they will typically first be taken to either a CBP or ICE office for processing, depending on which agency arrested them. This process includes gathering their biographic information, taking fingerprints and photos, and interviewing. Thereafter, the person may be released or sent to either a CBP holding facility or ICE detention facility.
Gather the following information:
Full legal name
Date of birth
Country of origin
A-Number*
*An A-number is a nine-digit immigration case number, found on documents such as receipt notices, tourist visas, or employment authorization documents.
Using this information, you may be able to locate your loved one in detention by using the Online Detainee Locator System: https://locator.ice.gov/odls/#/search
This online locator system is not always reliable but is a good first step for locating a loved one who has been detained. The locator system may take up to 48 hours to list an individual in ICE or CBP custody.
You will see two ways to search for a person in detention:
A-NUMBER
Search by using their A-number and country of birth. This option is usually easiest.
NAME & COUNTRY OF BIRTH.
The name you enter must match ICE’s records exactly. If the name has a unique spelling, you may need to try spelling variations to locate them in the system, including by hyphenating two last names
Detainees may also be able to call you directly on your phone.
If someone is calling you from inside a detention center, the call will likely show up on caller ID as “Telmate.” Please note that calls and communications may be monitored by the detention center.
If your loved one is detained in New Mexico or El Paso, you should create an account on gettingout.com
Learn how to create an account here: How do I create an account? - GettingOut
Currently, all three detention centers in New Mexico and two in El Paso have access to tablets that can receive messages through gettingout.com. Please visit ice.gov/detain/detention-facilities to see the latest information about each detention center.
