ICE Online Detainee Locator Information
Detention Facilities Directory
Our detention facility listings are designed to help families locate and understand basic facility information, including:
Facility name and general location
Contact information
Visitation guidelines
Communication options (phone, mail, messaging)
General facility rules and procedures
Detainee Search
Finding information about someone held in Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody can feel overwhelming at first. However, the process becomes much easier when you know where to look. ICE offers an Online Detainee Locator System (ODLS), a public search tool designed to help users locate individuals currently in ICE custody. Below is a simple guide to help you understand and navigate the search process.
Step 1: Locate Individuals Using the ICE Detainee Locator
Access the official ICE Online Detainee Locator System, a government-managed search tool designed to help users locate individuals in ICE custody. The system is easy to use and available in multiple languages.
Step 2: Gather the Required Information
To conduct a successful search, you'll need one of the following:
Alien Registration Number (A-Number): This is a unique nine-digit number assigned to non-citizens. Ensure you include the detainee's country of birth.
Biographical Information: If you don't have the A-Number, you can use their full name, date of birth, and country of birth.
Detainee Services
Immigration detention centers offer a range of resources designed to assist individuals in custody and help families stay informed. Below is an overview of common services that may be available to detainees, depending on facility policies:
Phone
People in custody can remain connected with family and friends using facility-approved calling services. Communication is usually limited to authorized recipients, and usage depends on available account balance. Supporters outside the facility may deposit funds in advance so calls can be made without interruption. Maintaining regular contact can provide reassurance and emotional stability during detention.
Commissary
Correctional facilities provide regulated telephone access that allows individuals in custody to reach approved contacts outside the facility. Before calls can be placed, contacts usually must be authorized, and calling time depends on the funds available to the detainee. Relatives and trusted individuals may contribute to the account so communication remains available. Staying in contact with supportive voices can be an important source of comfort during confinement.
Entertainment
Many detention facilities offer limited recreational and media options designed to support mental engagement during confinement. Depending on facility policies, individuals in custody may obtain reading materials or access approved media through available programs or commissary purchases. These resources are carefully regulated and intended to provide constructive use of time while complying with institutional guidelines.
Visitation
Visitation opportunities are made available to individuals in custody based on each facility’s established guidelines. Approved visitors may be permitted to meet either on-site or through virtual visitation platforms, depending on the location. Scheduling is often handled online and may involve verification steps before approval. Regular visits can play an important role in maintaining personal bonds and providing emotional reassurance during detention.
Send letters
Written correspondence remains an important option for staying connected with individuals in custody. Facilities may permit messages through standard postal mail or approved digital platforms, based on their communication policies. Some systems convert electronic submissions into printed copies before delivery, allowing messages and images to reach recipients more efficiently. This form of communication offers a meaningful way to share encouragement and maintain personal connections.