Lea County Detention Center
Lea County Detention Center
Physical Address
1401 S. CommercialLovington, NM 88260
Jail Phone Number
575-396-8694Lea County Inmate Search and Booking Information
Find someone in custody in Lea County. Open the official inmate lookup. Open the county’s detainee roster and look for the booking under the person’s legal name. For an adult record question, use the Adult Records contact on the county detention page.
If police in Hobbs, Lovington or another Lea County city made the arrest, ask that agency where they delivered the person if the roster does not show a match. For a juvenile, ask detention for Juvenile Control.
Before you visit or send money: Confirm where the person is held and ask for the booking or inmate number. The county has a separate contact for juvenile custody. For an adult booking, confirm the ID number and custody authority before using a visit or payment service.
Read inmate search answers
Read inmate search answers1. How do I find someone in custody in Lea County?
Open the official inmate lookup. Open the county’s detainee roster and look for the booking under the person’s legal name. For an adult record question, use the Adult Records contact on the county detention page. Write down the facility, booking or inmate number and the time you confirmed custody. Keep any court case number separate.
↑ Back to the question list2. Who can I call to check a booking?
Contact Lea County Detention Center at 1401 South Commercial Street, Lovington. Call 575-396-8669. Start with the full name, date of birth, approximate arrest date and the city or agency involved. If you already have a booking number, give that first. Official contact and facility information.
↑ Back to the question list3. What if the person does not show up?
Check spelling, hyphens, both surnames and the name used at arrest. With a recent arrest, ask whether intake is complete. If the jail has no record, ask the arresting agency where the person was taken and call that facility. A missing entry by itself does not establish a release.
↑ Back to the question list4. How can I find out if they went to another jail?
If police in Hobbs, Lovington or another Lea County city made the arrest, ask that agency where they delivered the person if the roster does not show a match. For a juvenile, ask detention for Juvenile Control. Ask when the person arrived or whether they were transferred, and get the receiving jail’s phone number. Call the receiving jail to confirm it accepted the person before arranging a ride, mailing anything or depositing money.
↑ Back to the question list5. Can I see a booking photo or mugshot?
If a booking record has a photo, compare the booking date and identifying details with what you know. If there is no photo, ask the facility’s records office whether photos are available and what request it accepts. A booking record shows an arrest or intake. The court record is where to check how a charge was resolved.
↑ Back to the question list6. How do I check for an active warrant?
Contact the agency or court that may have issued the warrant. Give the person’s full name and the case number if you have it. The New Mexico Courts public case search can help identify a case and its court, but a missing entry or an old jail listing cannot confirm whether a warrant is active.
↑ Back to the question list7. Where can I see the charges and next court date?
Write down the charge names and any case number you find in the booking record. Search New Mexico Courts public case search and call the clerk listed for that case to confirm the hearing time, courthouse and any public access instructions. For local court contacts, see the JailExchange court guide.
↑ Back to the question list8. Who can tell me whether bond was set or when they will be released?
For a local criminal case, confirm the latest release order with the court and ask the housing jail how it processes the order. A payment can still leave a separate hold to resolve, so ask about pickup before driving. Use the JailExchange bail guide for local contacts and procedures.
↑ Back to the question list9. Can I get a release or transfer notification?
Check New Mexico VINE or call 877-551-8463. If you can locate the record, follow the enrollment steps and keep your contact information current. If the service cannot find the person, ask the holding agency about its custody updates and victim notification process.
↑ Back to the question list10. How can I talk to someone in custody?
Ask the confirmed facility which phone service it uses and whether the person needs your number on an approved list. Ask how they can place an outgoing call. If a call is blocked, confirm the facility and account type before buying more credit. Ask counsel how to arrange a confidential legal call.
↑ Back to the question list11. How can I set up a visit?
The county has a separate contact for juvenile custody. For an adult booking, confirm the ID number and custody authority before using a visit or payment service. Ask whether you need an appointment, photo ID, visitor approval or special paperwork to bring a child. Confirm the exact address and visit type before leaving home.
↑ Back to the question list12. Where do I send letters or photographs?
Ask for the personal-mail address and the exact format for the person’s name, ID and return address. Some facilities use a separate mail processor. Ask what photographs, cards or other enclosures they accept before sending anything.
↑ Back to the question list13. How do I send money to the right account?
Use the vendor linked by the confirmed facility. Match the facility name, person and ID before paying. Commissary, phone credit and court bond can go through separate systems. If they have moved, check the new facility’s instructions before using the old account.
↑ Back to the question list14. Who do I contact with an urgent health or safety concern?
Call the facility holding the person and ask for the shift supervisor or medical unit. Give the full name, booking number and the specific concern, including any time-sensitive medication. Staff may be able to take the information even if they cannot discuss treatment with you.
↑ Back to the question list15. How do I search state prison, federal or immigration custody?
The New Mexico Corrections Department offender search covers state prison and supervision records. Check the listed status and location. For federal prison custody use the Federal Bureau of Prisons locator. For a recent federal arrest without a locator result, ask the arresting agency or counsel which facility is holding the person. For immigration detention, use the ICE Online Detainee Locator with the A-number and country of birth, or the name and country of birth. For a tribal arrest or a child’s arrest, ask the arresting agency directly about the correct facility and records process.
↑ Back to the question listLea County bail and bond: Hobbs, Lovington, Eunice and Jal
People picked up in Hobbs, Lovington, Eunice, Jal or Tatum go to the Lea County Detention Center, 1401 S. Commercial St., Lovington, 575-396-8669.
The Lea County Inmate Search shows current bookings.
Before paying, ask the court or jail which release order applies and where payment is accepted.
1. How big is the Lovington jail?
It has 509 beds and holds adults, juveniles and inmates for the U.S. Marshals (Lea County).
2. Which magistrate court has my family member's case?
Lea has four. Lovington: 100 W. Central, Suite D, 575-396-6677. Hobbs: 2110 N. Alto, 575-397-3621. Eunice: 1008 12th St., 575-394-3368. Jal: 3421 State Highway 18, 575-395-2740 (list of magistrate courts). Felonies end up in the Fifth Judicial District (NMSA 34-6-1).
3. Does Hobbs have a bail schedule?
Schedules are banned statewide (Rule 5-401, part E). The jail can release some minor offenders on a promise without waiting for a judge (Rule 6-408).
4. What if no warrant was used?
Then a judge has 48 hours to find probable cause, or the person must be let go (Rule 6-203). Conditions follow within 3 days (Rule 5-401).
5. Will we need cash?
Maybe not. New Mexico starts from release without money. A Lea judge who orders money must explain it and offer the 10% option before a full bond (Rule 5-401). Any bondsman should have a current license (license check).
6. Can a felony suspect be denied bail?
After a hearing, yes, if the prosecution proves no conditions are safe (N.M. Constitution; Rule 5-409).
7. Where is the public defender for Lea County?
In Hobbs at 419 W. Cain St., 575-263-2272, open weekdays (LOPD).
8. Where are teens from Lea County held?
Lea runs its own certified youth center at 1015 E. Central Ave., Lovington, 575-396-8506 (CYFD). Deadlines for a hearing come from the Children's Code (NMSA 32A-2-13).
9. And a federal arrest in the oil patch?
Las Cruces handles it, 575-528-1400 (U.S. District Court).
10. Who confirms the amount owed?
The detention center, 575-396-8669.
Lea County bail contacts
- Jail
- 1401 S. Commercial St., Lovington; 575-396-8669
- Public defender
- Hobbs, 575-263-2272
- Inmate search
- Lea County Inmate Search
Lea County Detention Center ON-SITE (at the jail) VIDEO VISITATION SCHEDULE
1401 S. Commercial
Lovington, NM 88260
575-396-8694
Schedule Video Visits online with gettingout
- On-site Visits are free.
- Visits are 30 minutes.
- Visitation schedule subject to change.
- Inmates are allowed two visits per week
- A maximum of 2 guests are allowed per an On-site video session.
| DAY | TIME |
| SUNDAY | 7:00 AM - 10:00 AM 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM |
| MONDAY | 7:00 AM - 10:00 AM 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM |
| TUESDAY | 7:00 AM - 10:00 AM 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM |
| WEDNESDAY | 7:00 AM - 10:00 AM 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM |
| THURSDAY | 7:00 AM - 10:00 AM 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM |
| FRIDAY | 7:00 AM - 10:00 AM 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM |
| SATURDAY | 7:00 AM - 10:00 AM 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM |
Lea County Detention Center REMOTE (at home) VIDEO VISITATION SCHEDULE
- All visits must be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance.
- Visitation Schedule subject to change.
| DAY | TIME |
| SUNDAY | 7:00 AM - 10:00 AM 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM |
| MONDAY | 7:00 AM - 10:00 AM 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM |
| TUESDAY | 7:00 AM - 10:00 AM 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM |
| WEDNESDAY | 7:00 AM - 10:00 AM 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM |
| THURSDAY | 7:00 AM - 10:00 AM 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM |
| FRIDAY | 7:00 AM - 10:00 AM 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM |
| SATURDAY | 7:00 AM - 10:00 AM 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM |
GettingOut / ViaPath Remote Video Visits
Provider: GettingOut (Telmate) • Rebranding as ViaPath Technologies (myViaPath Visits)
GettingOut Video Visitation allows friends and family members to conduct live, face-to-face video visits with incarcerated loved ones using a personal computer, laptop webcam, or the mobile application. Telmate and GTL operate under ViaPath Technologies, and the visiting service is transitioning from GettingOut Visits to myViaPath Visits; users may encounter either brand name depending on whether their county jail has completed the platform update.
Important: Advance Background Clearance Required
Detention centers do not permit unapproved drop-in video visitation. All visitors must submit valid government photo identification and pass administrative screening before an appointment can be booked, a review that can take up to 48 hours depending on facility staffing. You should verify your visitor approval status with the facility in advance. If you do not register ahead of time, you will miss your loved one's scheduled visiting slots for the week.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Schedule a Video Visit
- Open the GettingOut / myViaPath Visits app or go to www.gettingout.com / my.viapath.com.
- Register your profile and upload clear photographs of your government ID and a verification photo.
- Wait for the facility to issue visitor approval (you will receive an email confirmation).
- Select Schedule Visit, pick your detention facility, and select the inmate.
- Choose an available 25- or 30-minute time slot from the calendar and pay the visitation fee using a credit or debit card.
- Sign into the app or website 10 minutes prior to the start time on a device with a functioning camera, microphone, and stable internet connection.
What the Inmate Needs to Do
The inmate receives a schedule alert on their housing unit video kiosk or personal tablet. At the appointed time, they log in with their PIN and sit in front of the terminal. Inmates must follow institutional dress and conduct rules; corrections staff actively monitor sessions and will terminate any call immediately if rules are broken.
Official Providers: GettingOut Visits | myViaPath Visits
Customer Service Telephone: 1-866-516-0115 (GettingOut) • 1-877-650-4249 (ViaPath)
Support Hours: Monday – Friday, 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM CST; Saturday – Sunday, 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM CST
Supported Languages: English and Spanish
Other Services Provided by GettingOut / ViaPath
In addition to Remote Video Visits, GettingOut and ViaPath provide several other communication and financial options:
- Two-Way Text Messaging: Send electronic messages and photos straight to the inmate's screen.
• Learn more on our website: Two-Way Text Messaging Guide | • Visit official vendor page: GettingOut Messaging - Inmate Tablet Rentals & Content: Provide funds for educational modules, music streaming, and news.
• Learn more on our website: Tablet Rentals & Content Guide | • Visit official vendor page: GettingOut Tablets - AdvancePay Phone Calling: Keep a funded prepaid balance to receive calls directly on your phone.
• Learn more on our website: AdvancePay Phone Calling Guide | • Visit official vendor page: ViaPath ConnectNetwork Calling - Inmate Trust Deposits: Transfer money directly into their jail trust account for canteen goods.
• Learn more on our website: Inmate Trust Deposits Guide | • Visit official vendor page: ViaPath Trust Deposits
A Guide to Criminal Court in Lea County
Lea County sits in the far southeast corner of New Mexico, in the heart of the Permian Basin oil field. Hobbs is the largest city, but the county seat and district court are in Lovington.
Magistrate courts operate in Hobbs, Lovington and Eunice.
The Jal magistrate court has closed, and its cases now go to Eunice. Lea, Chaves and Eddy Counties together form the Fifth Judicial District.
1. What happens after an arrest in Hobbs or Lovington?
- Hobbs Magistrate Court, 2110 N. Alto Dr., Hobbs, NM 88240: (575) 397-3621
- Lovington Magistrate Court, 26 W. Avenue A, Lovington, NM 88260: (575) 396-6677
- Eunice Magistrate Court, 1008 12th St., Eunice, NM 88231: (575) 394-3368
- Fifth Judicial District Court, Lea County, 100 N. Love St., Lovington: (575) 396-8571
- Fifth Judicial District Attorney, Lovington office, 100 N. Love St., Suite 2: (575) 397-2471
- Law Offices of the Public Defender, Hobbs, 419 W. Cain St.: (575) 263-2272
Adults are taken to the county detention center in Lovington for booking. Use the Lea County Inmate Search to find out if someone is there. If police acted without a warrant, a judge has 48 hours to confirm they had good reason. The first appearance is held in the magistrate court that has the case, where the judge reads the charges and sets release terms.
↑ Back to the question list
2. Which magistrate court will hear my case?
Usually the one closest to where the alleged offense took place. Hobbs, Lovington and Eunice all try state misdemeanors, including DWI, domestic battery, larceny and drug paraphernalia charges, with a six-person jury available on request. Each also handles the early steps in felony cases. City ordinance tickets go to the municipal courts in Hobbs, Lovington, Eunice or Tatum.
↑ Back to the question list
3. When can Lea County prosecutors keep someone in jail before trial?
Only on a felony and only after winning a detention hearing in district court. The prosecutor files the motion, and the hearing must begin within five days. New Mexico's 2016 bail amendment puts the burden on the state to prove, clearly and convincingly, that no conditions could keep the community safe. If the judge isn't persuaded, the person is released on conditions such as check-ins, GPS, or a bond the person can realistically meet.
↑ Back to the question list
4. What are the steps in a Lea County felony case?
A sworn complaint filed in one of the three magistrate courts opens the case. To move forward, the district attorney gets an indictment from a grand jury or proves probable cause at a preliminary hearing. Court rules set that hearing at no more than 10 days out for someone jailed and 60 days for someone released. The district court in Lovington then holds the arraignment and handles motions, plea bargains and trial.
↑ Back to the question list
5. Where can I apply for a public defender in Lea County?
The public defender's Hobbs office on West Cain Street takes applications Monday through Friday until 4:30 p.m. You can also ask the judge at the first appearance. If the office can't take the case, a contract attorney steps in.
↑ Back to the question list
6. What sentences are possible, and how are cases appealed?
Twelve jurors must agree to convict in a felony trial. The basic sentence for each degree of felony is fixed by state law, ranging from 18 months for the lowest to 18 years for the highest, plus enhancements for a firearm or prior convictions. A misdemeanor is punishable by less than a year.
Anyone who loses in magistrate court has 15 days to request a new trial in district court. District court convictions go to the New Mexico Court of Appeals, with 30 days to file the notice.
↑ Back to the question list
7. Which Lea County cases could become federal cases?
Federal prosecutors handle crimes such as large-scale drug trafficking, firearms offenses by prohibited people, and fraud tied to federal programs. These go to the U.S. District Court for the District of New Mexico. The courthouse at 500 N. Richardson Ave. in Roswell holds hearings, (575) 637-7960, and the Las Cruces clerk's office is at (575) 528-1400.
↑ Back to the question list
8. How do I look up a Lea County case number?
Visit New Mexico Courts Case Lookup and search by name. The results show the court, case number, charges and upcoming hearings for magistrate and district court cases.
↑ Back to the question list
9. Who can confirm the date of a Lea County hearing?
Reach the magistrate court that filed the case: Hobbs (575) 397-3621, Lovington (575) 396-6677 or Eunice (575) 394-3368. For felonies in district court, call (575) 396-8571. Treat what you read here as an overview rather than legal advice.
↑ Back to the question list
Inmate Canteen (operated by TurnKey Corrections) allows friends and family members to purchase pre-approved commissary packages, including brand-name snacks, confectionery goods, personal hygiene products, stationery, and apparel kits sent directly to an incarcerated loved one. Every package is packed to adhere strictly to facility security regulations, ensuring items pass institutional intake without being rejected at the loading dock.
Important: Package Deadlines and Delivery Windows Vary
Detention centers do not manage care package deliveries under identical schedules. While some facilities allow weekly orders, others restrict deliveries to bi-weekly or monthly distribution windows, and spending limits vary from jail to jail. You should verify the facility's active cutoff schedule and order allowances by calling them directly. If an order is submitted after the weekly processing deadline, delivery will be held until the following cycle, leaving your loved one waiting an extra cycle for fresh snacks, thermal wear, or personal care supplies.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Place a Commissary Package Order
- Confirm the inmate's legal first and last name, date of birth, and assigned booking or inmate ID number.
- Navigate to www.inmatecanteen.com and sign in or create a user profile.
- Select Commissary / Store and choose your state and detention center.
- Search for the inmate to unlock the facility's approved product catalog.
- Select allowable snack foods, candies, personal care goods, and clothing items up to the facility's allowed spending limit.
- Proceed to checkout, enter your debit or credit card billing details, and submit payment.
- Save your digital receipt and confirmation tracking number for your records.
What the Inmate Needs to Do
The inmate does not need an internet account to receive care packages. TurnKey Corrections prepares the order in secure, tamper-evident packaging and delivers it directly to the jail commissary department. Facility staff inspect the shipment and deliver the items during regular housing unit commissary rounds, where the inmate signs for receipt.
Official Provider: Inmate Canteen Official Website
Customer Service Telephone: 1-715-690-2965
Support Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM CST
Supported Languages: English and Spanish
Other Services Provided by Inmate Canteen (TurnKey Corrections)
In addition to Commissary Care Packages, Inmate Canteen provides several other communication, financial, and visitation services:
- Tablets & Chirp Units: Learn how secure handheld devices allow inmates to communicate, read, and message.
• Learn more on our website: Tablet Programs Guide | • Visit official vendor page: Inmate Canteen Devices - Remote Video Visitation: Schedule and join live face-to-face video visits from your computer or smartphone.
• Learn more on our website: Video Visitation Guide | • Visit official vendor page: Inmate Canteen Video Visits - Digital Messaging: Send electronic messages and photos directly to housing pod kiosks and handheld devices.
• Learn more on our website: Digital Messaging Guide | • Visit official vendor page: Inmate Canteen Messaging - Trust & Phone Deposits: Deposit money directly into an inmate's jail trust account or phone calling balance.
• Learn more on our website: Trust & Phone Deposits Guide | • Visit official vendor page: Inmate Canteen Deposits
Buy Commissary for an Inmate in the Lea County Detention Center
Lea County Detention Center Inmate Commissary - Sending Money or Purchasing Commissary for an Inmate
Lea County Detention Center allows inmates to purchase commissary. This can be snacks, hygiene products, stamps, stationary, clothing and even electronics.
You can buy commissary for an inmate using an online service called Inmate Canteen.
Inmate Canteen Customer Service can be reached at 715-690-2965, or by email at support@inmatecanteen.com.
There is a monthly limit of $200-300 on how much inmates can spend on commissary items.
This amount is subject to change so call the facility at 575-396-8694 in order to confirm the amount that cannot be exceeded.
Inmates have access to both an in-house commissary store, and commissary packages that can be purchased and shipped to the inmate by friends and family.
Scroll down for information on the Lea County Detention Center's service they use for you being able to purchase commissary items online and have them shipped directly to the inmate.
You can also go to our Inmate Money page for information on how to send money to an inmate.
Inmate Canteen Trust & Phone Deposits allow friends and family members to transfer money directly into an incarcerated person's jail trust account or telephone calling balance using a credit or debit card. Deposited funds give your loved one the financial balance needed to buy personal care goods, over-the-counter medication, snacks, and phone talk time from the facility canteen.
Important: Facility Banking Policies Vary Across Jails
Once a person is booked and moved to a cell, facilities do not always allow cash drop-offs or phone payments directly to the jail window. Some might and you should confirm this by calling the facility and asking. But if you do not register online and fund your loved one's trust account immediately, they may be forced to wait days or weeks for standard paper processing, leaving them without essential soap, clean undergarments, basic medical sundries or snacks.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Register and Deposit Funds
- Confirm the inmate's legal first and last name, date of birth, and assigned booking or inmate ID number.
- Navigate to www.inmatecanteen.com on your computer or mobile device.
- Click on Deposit Funds and select whether to fund the Trust Account (for commissary) or Phone Account (for talk time).
- Select the state and facility where the inmate is currently housed.
- Search for the inmate to confirm their active housing record matches the facility roster.
- Enter your deposit dollar amount, review convenience fees, and enter your debit or credit card billing details.
- Submit payment and save the digital confirmation receipt for your financial records.
What the Inmate Needs to Do
The inmate does not need an internet connection to receive trust funds. Once payment clears, the balance posts directly to their accounting profile in the jail's internal system. The inmate can review their updated balance at the pod kiosk terminal and place their regular weekly commissary order or make outbound phone calls.
Official Provider: Inmate Canteen Official Website
Customer Service Telephone: 1-715-690-2965
Support Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM CST
Supported Languages: English and Spanish
Other Services Provided by Inmate Canteen (TurnKey Corrections)
In addition to Trust & Phone Deposits, Inmate Canteen provides several other communication, financial, and commissary services at participating correctional facilities:
- Commissary & Snack Packs: Order pre-approved snack boxes, food packages, and clothing directly to the jail.
• Learn more on our website: Commissary Orders Guide | • Visit official vendor page: Inmate Canteen Commissary - Remote Video Visitation: Schedule and join live face-to-face video visits from your computer or smartphone.
• Learn more on our website: Video Visitation Guide | • Visit official vendor page: Inmate Canteen Video Visits - Digital Messaging & Chirp Texts: Send electronic messages and photos directly to housing pod kiosks and handheld devices.
• Learn more on our website: Digital Messaging Guide | • Visit official vendor page: Inmate Canteen Messaging
Deposit Money for an Inmate in the Lea County Detention Center
The Easiest and Securest Way of Depositing Money for an Inmate
There are several methods for depositing money on an inmate's account:
1. To send money online to an inmate in the Lea County Detention Center use Inmate Canteen.
2. If you prefer to use your credit or debit card and deposit money over the phone, unfortunately Inmate Canteen does not accept phone calls, but you can ask questions using the chat box on their home page.
3. Deposit cash or use a debit or credit card using a dedicated kiosk for this purpose. The machine is located in the lobby or visitation area of the Lea County Detention Center.
4. The Lea County Detention Center may also allow you to *mail an inmate a money order or cashier’s check from a trusted source such as the Post Office, a local bank, or Western Union. The money order should be be made out to either the inmate or the Lea County Sheriff's Office, with the inmate’s name and ID# on the memo line of the check. To confirm this option call the facility at 575-396-8694.
Inmate Canteen Customer Service can be reached at 715-690-2965, or by email at support@inmatecanteen.com.
*When mailing a money order or cashier’s check, send it an envelope by itself. Never send it with a letter or photos for your inmate, unless the facility allows it. Never send personal checks or cash.
5. The Lea County Detention Center has a reception desk that may accept cash, money orders or cashier checks. Call 575-396-8694 to find out the specific hours for drop off times.
Lea County runs the Lea County Detention Center on South Commercial Street in Lovington. Letters arrive on paper at the jail, where officers scan and inspect each piece for contraband and rule violations before it is handed out. Find the person's LCDC number on the detainee roster and put it under their name.
Letters, legal mail, books and magazines:
Inmate's Full Name & LCDC#
Lea County Detention Center
1401 S. Commercial Street
Lovington, NM 88260
- Sender information: Print your full name and return address in the envelope's upper left corner, or expect the letter to be destroyed.
- Books: Paperbacks only. Each one has to be brand new and shipped to the Lovington jail by its publisher or an approved seller. Lea County staff throw out books with extreme violence, pornography or obscene pictures.
- Magazines and newspapers: New and mailed by the publisher. Profanity, weapons, nudity or other adult content means the magazine is confiscated.
- Greeting cards: Plain and without music.
- Ink: Blue or black only. Crayons, felt markers, colored ink, lipstick and perfume all break the rules.
- Decorations: No drawing on the envelope, and no glitter or confetti inside it.
- Gifts and packages: These ship only through the company that runs the LCDC commissary.
- Stamps: Postage stamps can't be included in your letter. Detainees who can't afford them receive two or three a week, along with matching envelopes and writing paper.
- Restricted contacts: No mail with co-defendants, people in any jail or prison, or anyone under a no-contact order.
- Penalties: A detainee who gets mail that breaks the rules can lose mail privileges. Sending contraband more than once can also cost visits and phone calls, and illegal items lead to criminal charges.
- Electronic messages: Short electronic messages of up to 500 characters are another choice. Photos sent this way must be approved before the inmate sees them.
ViaPath AdvancePay Phone Calling Accounts
Provider: ViaPath Technologies • Formerly ConnectNetwork / Global Tel*Link (GTL)
AdvancePay is the primary prepaid telecommunications service operated by Global Tel*Link (GTL) and ConnectNetwork, which have unified under the corporate identity of ViaPath Technologies (and the myViaPath platform). By funding an AdvancePay account, telephone charges are deducted per minute whenever an incarcerated loved one calls your specific telephone number, preventing calls from being rejected by cellular carriers.
Important: Cell Carriers Automatically Block Jail Collect Calls
Inmate telephone networks do not permit incoming calls, and wireless cell providers automatically block traditional collect billing by default. While select traditional landlines may support operator billing, cell phones and internet-based lines require an active AdvancePay balance, which you can verify with your carrier. If you do not register your number online and add funds immediately, your loved one will hear an automated operator announcement stating your line is blocked from receiving correctional calls.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Open and Fund AdvancePay
- Visit web.connectnetwork.com or the updated my.viapath.com portal, or launch the ConnectNetwork / ViaPath mobile application.
- Click Sign Up and register using your primary 10-digit cellphone number and email address.
- Select Add Facility, pick your state, and choose the detention center or state prison where the inmate is held.
- Search for the inmate using their full legal name or facility booking ID number and link them to your contact directory.
- Select AdvancePay Phone and choose your deposit amount ($25, $50, or custom).
- Enter your debit or credit card billing details, accept the administrative transaction fee, and complete the payment.
- Check your phone settings to confirm that automated or unknown correctional numbers are not routed straight to spam.
What the Inmate Needs to Do
The inmate approaches any housing pod telephone, enters their assigned PIN and voice biometric recognition phrase, and dials your 10-digit number. ViaPath's automated operator confirms your active prepaid balance and connects the call. All personal telephone calls are subject to recording and monitoring by facility investigators.
Official Providers: ConnectNetwork Portal | myViaPath Portal
Customer Service Telephone: 1-877-650-4249 (Automated & Live Support)
Support Hours: Automated Service 24/7; Live Operators Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM EST
Supported Languages: English and Spanish
Other Services Provided by ViaPath Technologies (ConnectNetwork)
In addition to AdvancePay Phone Calling, ViaPath / ConnectNetwork provides several other communication, financial, and visitation services:
- ConnectNetwork Trust Fund Deposits: Transfer money directly into an inmate's jail trust account for commissary store purchases.
• Learn more on our website: Inmate Trust Deposits Guide | • Visit official vendor page: ConnectNetwork Trust Deposits - ViaPath PIN Debit Phone Calling: Give the inmate their own calling funds to contact any approved phone number independently.
• Learn more on our website: PIN Debit Phone Calling Guide | • Visit official vendor page: ViaPath PIN Debit Calling - ViaPath Messaging & Photo Sharing: Send digital messages, photos, and video attachments directly to their terminal.
• Learn more on our website: Digital Messaging Guide | • Visit official vendor page: ViaPath Messaging Services - GettingOut Video Visitation & Tablets: Schedule face-to-face remote video visits and manage handheld tablet communications.
• Learn more on our website: Remote Video Visitation Guide | • Visit official vendor page: GettingOut Video Visits
ViaPath PIN Debit Phone Calling Accounts
Provider: ViaPath Technologies • Formerly ConnectNetwork / Global Tel*Link (GTL)ViaPath PIN Debit (hosted on ConnectNetwork and myViaPath) provides incarcerated individuals with their own calling funds. Unlike AdvancePay (which only funds calls placed to your specific phone number), PIN Debit funds belong directly to the inmate, allowing them to call attorneys, bondsmen, employers, or extended family members across multiple approved telephone numbers.
Important: AdvancePay Only Funds a Single Phone Number
When someone is arrested, they often need to contact multiple people—including legal defense counsel, bail agents, employers, and relatives. If you only fund an AdvancePay account, your loved one will have no calling balance to dial anyone else, as rules and call authorizations vary by facility. Adding funds directly to ViaPath PIN Debit grants them the calling flexibility needed to handle critical legal and family arrangements without delay.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Fund a PIN Debit Account
- Sign into your account at web.connectnetwork.com or my.viapath.com.
- Click on PIN Debit under the communications menu.
- Select the state and facility, and link the inmate's booking identification number.
- Enter the deposit dollar amount and review the payment transaction fee.
- Enter your debit or credit card details and submit the payment.
- Notify your loved one that their personal PIN calling balance has been credited.
What the Inmate Needs to Do
The calling balance appears under the inmate's personal identification PIN. When they pick up any dayroom telephone or tablet, they select the 'PIN Debit' prompt from the automated menu to place calls to any approved number on their personal contact list.
Official Providers: ConnectNetwork Portal | myViaPath Portal
Customer Service Telephone: 1-877-650-4249
Support Hours: Automated Deposits 24/7/365; Live Agents Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM EST
Supported Languages: English and Spanish
Other Services Provided by ViaPath Technologies (ConnectNetwork)
In addition to PIN Debit Calling, ViaPath / ConnectNetwork provides several other communication, financial, and visitation services:
- AdvancePay Dedicated Phone Calling: Fund calls placed specifically to your personal phone number.
• Learn more on our website: AdvancePay Calling Guide | • Visit official vendor page: ConnectNetwork AdvancePay - ConnectNetwork Trust Fund Deposits: Deposit money for commissary food, hygiene supplies, and stationery.
• Learn more on our website: Inmate Trust Deposits Guide | • Visit official vendor page: ConnectNetwork Trust Deposits - ViaPath Messaging & Photo Sharing: Send digital messages and photos directly to their kiosk or tablet.
• Learn more on our website: Digital Messaging Guide | • Visit official vendor page: ViaPath Messaging Services - GettingOut Video Visitation & Tablets: Schedule face-to-face remote video visits from home.
• Learn more on our website: Remote Video Visitation Guide | • Visit official vendor page: GettingOut Video Visits
GettingOut / ViaPath Inmate Messaging
Provider: GettingOut (Telmate) • Rebranding as ViaPath Technologies (myViaPath)GettingOut (a service of Global Tel*Link / Telmate) provides an instant two-way digital messaging and photo-sharing platform connecting families with incarcerated individuals via housing-unit kiosks and handheld tablets. The provider is actively rebranding as ViaPath Technologies (under the myViaPath platform); depending on the facility contract, local booking sheets and tablets may still refer to the service as GettingOut, GTL, or ViaPath, but both brand portals grant access to the same centralized messaging balance.
Important: Contact Authorization and Digital Mail Rules Vary
Inmate digital messaging rules are not uniform across all county detention centers. While some jails allow immediate two-way messaging upon registration, others require initial contact invitations or administrative ID verification, which you should verify directly with the facility. If you delay setting up an online profile and funding your Friends & Family messaging account, your loved one may face lengthy periods without direct family communication.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Register and Message an Inmate
- Visit www.gettingout.com or the newly branded my.viapath.com portal, or install the GettingOut / myViaPath mobile app.
- Create a user profile using your primary email address and 10-digit mobile phone number.
- Complete identity verification by uploading a clear photo of your government-issued driver's license or state ID and taking a verification selfie if requested.
- Search for the inmate by selecting the state, correctional facility, and their legal name or booking ID.
- Send an outside contact connection request to link your account to their tablet profile.
- Deposit funds into your 'Friends & Family Account' using a debit or credit card to cover message and photo-sharing costs.
- Compose your text message in the chat box, attach approved photos, and submit it for jail screening.
What the Inmate Needs to Do
The inmate powers on their assigned pod tablet or approaches a housing-unit kiosk and logs into the messaging application with their PIN. They accept your incoming contact invitation on the screen. Once approved by institutional monitors, incoming messages appear in their inbox, and the inmate types a reply directly on the screen.
Official Providers: GettingOut Website | myViaPath Portal
Customer Service Telephone: 1-866-516-0115 (GettingOut Support) • 1-877-650-4249 (ViaPath Support)
Support Hours: Monday – Friday, 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM CST; Saturday – Sunday, 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM CST
Supported Languages: English and Spanish
Other Services Provided by GettingOut / ViaPath
In addition to Two-Way Text Messaging, GettingOut and ViaPath provide several other communications and visitation options:
- Remote Video Visits: Schedule and join live web-based video visits from your computer or smartphone.
• Learn more on our website: Video Visitation Guide | • Visit official vendor page: GettingOut Video Visits - Inmate Tablet Rentals & Media: Fund tablet entertainment, music streaming, games, and news modules.
• Learn more on our website: Tablet Rentals & Content Guide | • Visit official vendor page: GettingOut Tablets - AdvancePay Phone Calling: Prepay for telephone calls so your loved one can dial your mobile phone directly.
• Learn more on our website: AdvancePay Phone Calling Guide | • Visit official vendor page: ViaPath ConnectNetwork Calling - Inmate Trust Deposits: Transfer funds directly into their jail trust account for commissary store purchases.
• Learn more on our website: Inmate Trust Deposits Guide | • Visit official vendor page: ViaPath Trust Deposits
GettingOut / ViaPath Inmate Tablets & Media
Provider: GettingOut (Telmate) • Rebranding as ViaPath Technologies (myViaPath)GettingOut provides specialized, secure handheld tablets for county jail inmates, offering access to messaging apps, telephone calling, legal research tools, eBooks, vocational training, and premium entertainment rentals. As part of GTL and Telmate's transition to ViaPath Technologies, tablet firmware and management platforms are moving to the myViaPath system.
Important: Tablet Feature Availability Varies by Facility
Jails manage tablet distribution according to individual facility contracts. While basic educational and legal materials are often provided without cost, access to music streaming, games, podcasts, and premium movies requires an active funded account. You should confirm the tablet rules with the facility directly. Registering and funding their media balance right away ensures your loved one has productive resources and recreation during their stay.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Fund Inmate Tablet Services
- Confirm that GettingOut / ViaPath handheld tablets are active at your loved one's specific detention facility.
- Navigate to www.gettingout.com or my.viapath.com.
- Sign into your verified user profile and link the inmate's legal name and booking ID number.
- Select Make a Deposit and choose either your Friends & Family Account (for messaging) or the inmate's personal Inmate Account (for entertainment and song rentals).
- Choose your deposit amount, review convenience fees, and complete payment with a credit or debit card.
- Notify your loved one that their tablet account balance has been funded.
What the Inmate Needs to Do
The inmate unlocks their assigned tablet or signs one out from the pod charging station using their biometric verification or PIN. Once logged in, their available balance appears on the screen, allowing them to download songs, stream educational content, and communicate with approved family members.
Official Providers: GettingOut Website | myViaPath Portal
Customer Service Telephone: 1-866-516-0115 (GettingOut) • 1-877-650-4249 (ViaPath)
Support Hours: Monday – Friday, 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM CST; Saturday – Sunday, 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM CST
Supported Languages: English and Spanish
Other Services Provided by GettingOut / ViaPath
In addition to Tablet Media & Rentals, GettingOut and ViaPath provide several other communication and account services:
- Two-Way Text Messaging: Send electronic letters and photos straight to the inmate's screen.
• Learn more on our website: Two-Way Text Messaging Guide | • Visit official vendor page: GettingOut Messaging - Remote Video Visits: Meet face-to-face over secure live video from home.
• Learn more on our website: Video Visitation Guide | • Visit official vendor page: GettingOut Video Visits - AdvancePay Phone Calling: Prepay for phone calling credits so your loved one can call your telephone directly.
• Learn more on our website: AdvancePay Phone Calling Guide | • Visit official vendor page: ViaPath ConnectNetwork Calling - Inmate Trust Deposits: Transfer cash directly into an inmate's jail ledger for commissary purchases.
• Learn more on our website: Inmate Trust Deposits Guide | • Visit official vendor page: ViaPath Trust Deposits
- Detention Center: 575-396-8675
- Adult Inmate Information: 575-396-8694
- Hobbs Municipal Jail: 575-397-9247
- Juvenile Inmate Information: 575-396-8678
The Lea County Detention Center serves the following cities and towns of Lea County: Eunice, Hobbs, Jal, Lovington and Tatum.