The El Paso Processing Center (EPSPC) plays a crucial role in immigration enforcement, and for those with loved ones or clients detained there, understanding the visitation procedures is paramount. This guide aims to clarify the rules and regulations surrounding visits to the El Paso Processing Center, ensuring a smooth and informed experience for all visitors.
Visiting Friends and Family at the El Paso Processing Center
Visits for friends and family are strictly regulated to maintain security and order within the facility. These visits are non-contact, meaning physical interaction with the detainee is not permitted. The scheduling process is crucial; appointments are mandatory and must be made in advance via phone call to (915) 225-0700/0717.
Available times are limited: Monday through Friday from 6 pm to 9 pm, and on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays from 11 am to 3 pm and again from 6 pm to 9 pm. Each visit is restricted to a one-hour duration. Remember to bring a valid government-issued ID if you are an adult; minors must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Failure to adhere to these schedules and regulations could result in the denial of your visit.
Attorney Access to the El Paso Processing Center
Legal representatives benefit from significantly more flexible visitation access compared to friends and family. Attorneys can visit their clients seven days a week, from 7 am to 10 pm, offering ample opportunity for consultations and legal strategy discussions. This broad access underscores the importance of legal representation in immigration proceedings.
Paralegals also have access, although their hours are more limited: Monday through Friday from 8 am to 5 pm, and on weekends and holidays from 8 am to 12 pm. This ensures that support staff can assist attorneys effectively. The El Paso Processing Center also provides a list of pro bono legal organizations within the facility, to assist detainees who may not have access to private legal counsel. Detainees are responsible for reaching out to these organizations themselves to arrange for legal assistance.
Virtual Attorney Visits (VAV) at the El Paso Processing Center
The EPSPC offers a modern and convenient alternative to in-person visits: Virtual Attorney Visits (VAV). These appointments are requested via email at ELPASO_EPC_VAV@ice.dhs.gov. Requests must include the attorney’s and detainee’s full identification, proposed visit times, and supporting legal documentation, such as a bar card and the DHS Form G-28.
A 24-hour advance notice is required for scheduling VAVs. Appointments are usually scheduled for 30 to 60 minute increments between 7 am and 5 pm MST. The platform used is Socrates 360, providing a secure environment for communication and the exchange of electronic documents. During VAVs, a visitation officer maintains visual monitoring to ensure security and protocol adherence. Importantly, only legal representatives, their assistants, and interpreters are allowed during virtual visits; family and friends are not permitted.
Visits from Consular Officials and Clergy
Consular officials and clergy members also have access to the El Paso Processing Center. While consular officials can meet with detainees at any time, they are strongly encouraged to coordinate their visits in advance with the ICE Supervisory Deportation Officer at (915) 225-0700/0717. This advance notice ensures the smooth execution of the visitation.
Similarly, clergy visits require prior arrangement with the Chaplain’s Office to ensure that the visit is accommodated within the facility’s schedule and security protocols. Both consular and clergy visits underscore the importance of international and religious support networks in the immigration process.
Security Measures and Restrictions at the El Paso Processing Center
The EPSPC maintains strict security measures for all visits. This is to ensure the safety and security of both detainees and visitors alike. No weapons of any kind, including firearms, are allowed. All visitors will be subject to pat-downs, bag checks, and metal detection.
Visitors under the influence of alcohol or drugs will be denied entry. Passing any items to detainees is strictly forbidden, and visitors are not permitted to bring any items into the visitation area. This includes electronic devices such as cell phones, pagers, and radios. Refusal to cooperate with security screenings will result in immediate denial of entry. These measures ensure a secure and orderly environment for all.
In conclusion, navigating the visitation procedures at the El Paso Processing Center requires careful attention to detail. Understanding the specific regulations for each type of visit, from friends and family to legal representatives and consular officials, is essential for a successful visit. By adhering to the outlined procedures and guidelines, visitors can contribute to the safe and efficient operation of the El Paso Processing Center while maintaining contact with their loved ones or clients.
Here’s an FAQ section about the El Paso Service Processing Center (EPSPC) based on the information provided.
What are the visiting hours for friends and family?
Friends and family visits are non-contact and are scheduled for Monday-Friday, 6 pm to 9 pm, and Saturday/Sunday/Holidays, 11 am to 3 pm and 6 pm to 9 pm. Each visit is limited to one hour. Appointments must be made by calling (915) 225-0700/0717.
What identification is required for friends and family visits?
Adult visitors must present a valid government-issued ID. Minors must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
What are the visiting hours for attorneys?
Attorneys can schedule visits seven days a week, from 7 am to 10 pm.
What are the visiting hours for paralegals?
Paralegals can visit Monday through Friday from 8 am to 5 pm, and on weekends/holidays from 8 am to 12 pm.
How can I access pro bono legal services for a detainee?
A list of pro bono legal organizations is available at the facility. Detainees are responsible for contacting these organizations directly to schedule appointments.
How do I schedule a virtual attorney visit (VAV)?
Virtual attorney visits can be requested via email at ELPASO_EPC_VAV@ice.dhs.gov. The request must include the attorney’s and detainee’s identification, proposed times, and supporting legal documentation (e.g., bar card, G-28 form). Appointments require 24-hour advance notice and are scheduled between 7 am and 5 pm MST, in 30-60 minute increments. The platform used is Socrates 360.
What are the visitation policies for consular and clergy visits?
Consular officials can meet with detainees at any time, but are encouraged to make prior arrangements with the ICE Supervisory Deportation Officer at (915) 225-0700/0717. Clergy visits also require prior arrangement with the Chaplain’s Office.
What security measures are in place for all visits?
All visits are subject to strict security measures. Weapons, electronic devices, and outside items are prohibited. All visitors are subject to pat-downs, bag checks, and metal detection. Intoxicated individuals will be denied entry. Passing items to detainees is strictly prohibited. Refusal to cooperate with searches will result in denial of entry.