Overview

The New Mexico Corrections Department (NMCD) will conclude its use of the privately operated Lea County Correctional Facility (LCCF) by June 30, 2025. This follows The GEO Group, Inc.’s decision not to renew its longstanding contract with Lea County. This transition marks the successful completion of NMCD’s strategic initiative to bring prison operations under state control, a years-long effort that previously returned facilities in Clayton, Santa Rosa, and Grants to state management.

Why Is This Happening?

In January 2025, The GEO Group formally notified NMCD that it would not seek to extend operations beyond November 2025, effectively ending a partnership that dates back to 1998. In response to this unexpected development, NMCD has proactively developed a comprehensive transition plan that prioritizes public safety and operational efficiency, and responsible fiscal management.

Current GEO Group Employees

 – CLICK IMAGE ABOVE FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE RAPID HIRE EVENT –

NMCD is also seeking qualified candidates for positions in education, administrative, probation and parole, and more!

Click here to view openings.

What This Means for Inmates and Families

Approximately 1,000 NMCD inmates at LCCF will be transferred to state-operated facilities by June 30, 2025; State facilities are in Clayton, Springer, Santa Fe, Grants, Los Lunas, Santa Rosa, Roswell, and Las Cruces. While NMCD cannot share specific transfer dates for security reasons, the department remains committed to minimizing disruption and maintaining access to rehabilitation programs, medical care, and family communication.

Suport Resources for Families:

• NMCD Family Support Line: 505-827-8710
• Inmate Locator: https://www.cd.nm.gov/offender-search/

1.  My loved one has medical issues. Will they receive proper care at the new facility?
   Answer:Yes. All of our facilities have qualified medical providers. Continuity of care is a top priority, and your loved one will continue to receive the medical attention they need.
2.  How can victims and their families track an inmate’s transfer or location?
   • Use our Offender Search tool for the most current information
   • Contact the NMCD Victim Services Program at 1-877-VICTIM4 (1-877-842-8464) or email cdvictimsrvcs@cd.nm.gov
   • Final release notifications will be provided to victims who have registered through the appropriate district attorney’s office. To learn more about victim registration requirements, please contact your local district attorney’s office and/or the New Mexico Corrections Department Victim Services Program at 1-877-842-8464 or by email at cdvictimsrvcs@cd.nm.gov.
3.  My loved one is currently in protective custody at LCCF. Will they be moved to general population?
   Answer: No. Inmates will be relocated according to their classification and security needs. Those requiring protective housing will be appropriately placed at their new facility.
4. When will I know that my loved one has been transferred? Will they contact me?
   Answer: Yes. Inmates will have access to phones at their new facility and may call their families once settled. Their phone credits will transfer with them. Please note that Smart Communications tablets may take up to seven days to fully update.
5. How can I send mail to an inmate being transferred from LCCF?
   Answer: Until June 30, 2025, send mail to:
   Inmate Name / NMCD #
   Lea County Correctional Facility
   P.O. Box 9210
   Seminole, FL 33775-9210

After that date, mail should be directed to the inmate’s new facility. A full list of updated mailing addresses can be found here .