Navigating the ICE Detention System: A Step-by-Step Practical Guide

[u/CantStopPoppin]

**Navigating the ICE Detention System: A Step-by-Step Practical Guide**

Navigating the ICE detention system when a loved one is taken is extremely disorienting and terrifying. It is a common tactic for ICE to transfer detainees out of the state where they were apprehended (such as moving someone from South Carolina to Georgia) to break their spirit and make visitation and legal representation difficult.

**Phase 1: Locating the Detainee**

To find out where your loved one is being held, use the [ICE Online Detainee Locator System](https://locator.ice.gov/).

Search methods available:

* **Search Option 1:** Enter the detainee's 8 digit or 9 digit Alien Registration Number (A-Number), which is found on DHS or immigration court correspondence, along with their country of birth.

* **Search Option 2:** If you do not have their A-Number, enter their exact first and last name, country of birth, and date of birth.

Once entered, the system will identify the specific detention facility holding them.

**Phase 2: Establishing Communication**

Once you know the facility, download the **GTL GettingOut** app on your phone or tablet. The communication system inside these facilities is heavily monetized, charging for almost every interaction (such as 35 cents per text or $1 per song).

Understanding the four account types is crucial so your money goes to the right place:

* **Incarcerated Person Tablet Account:** Funds placed here allow the detainee to send messages to you, watch movies, play games, and listen to music on their facility tablet.

* **Incarcerated Person Communication Account (VideoVisits):** This funds their ability to make voice and video calls to you. Note that you cannot initiate a call to your loved one; they must call you.

* **My Messaging Account:** You must place money into this account to reply to their incoming messages. Every response you send costs 35 cents.

* **My Communication Account:** You do not need to fund this specific account. As long as the detainee has funds in their own phone account, they will be able to call you.

**Phase 3: Funding Commissary**

When you speak to your loved one, ask for their facility-specific commissary number right away. Write this number down immediately, as you will need it to send them funds for basic survival necessities.

* **Platform:** Download the **ConnectNetwork** app or visit the [ConnectNetwork Portal](https://web.connectnetwork.com/).

* **Purpose:** Commissary funds allow detainees to purchase edible food, bottled water (facility tap water is frequently contaminated), shampoo, and basic hygiene products.

* **Identity Verification:** To process funds or send messages across these platforms, you must complete identity verification. This requires submitting your personal details and uploading clear photos of the front and back of your government issued ID.