Tacoma Northwest Detention Center (NWDC) - GEO (ICE) Washington
Overview of the Facility
The Tacoma Northwest Detention Center (NWDC) is an immigration detention facility located in Tacoma, Washington. It is operated by the GEO Group, a private company, under contract with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The facility has a capacity to hold approximately 1,575 detainees.
Contact Information
- Address: 1623 East J Street, Suite 2, Tacoma, WA 98421-1615
- Phone Number: (253) 779-6000
- Website: ICE Facility Information
How to Locate an Inmate
To locate a detainee at NWDC, use the ICE Online Detainee Locator System: ICE Detainee Locator. You will need the detainee's A-Number and country of birth, or their full name, country of birth, and date of birth.
Visitation Information and Hours
Visitation hours vary depending on the housing unit. Visitors should contact the facility directly for the most up-to-date visitation schedule. All visitors must present a valid government-issued photo ID.
How to Send Money
Detainees can receive funds through various methods:
- Online: GTL Pay
- MoneyGram: Use Receive Code 2419
- Western Union: Use Code City ICEDETAINEE and State Code DC
Phone Calls and Video Options
Detainees have access to telephones in their housing units. Friends and family can set up prepaid accounts through ConnectNetwork to receive calls from detainees. Video visitation may be available, but you should contact the facility for current options.
Inmate Services and Programs
NWDC offers various services and programs, including:
- Legal orientation programs
- Educational classes
- Recreational activities
- Religious services
- Medical and mental health care
History of the Facility
The Tacoma Northwest Detention Center opened in 2004. It has been the subject of controversy and protests due to concerns about detainee treatment and conditions.
Security and Management Information
The facility is managed by the GEO Group under ICE oversight. It employs various security measures, including perimeter fencing, surveillance cameras, and trained staff.
Legal and Visitation Rights
Detainees have the right to legal counsel and can receive visits from attorneys or legal representatives. They also have the right to receive visits from family and friends, subject to facility rules and schedules.
Booking and Release Process
Detainees are typically transferred to NWDC by ICE after being apprehended. Upon arrival, they undergo intake procedures, including medical screening and assignment to housing units. Release may occur through various means, including bond, deportation, or case resolution.
Frequently Asked Questions
What items can I bring to a visitation?
Visitors are generally not allowed to bring personal items into the visitation area. Lockers may be available for storing personal belongings. Contact the facility for specific rules regarding permitted items.
Can detainees receive mail?
Yes, detainees can receive mail. All incoming mail is inspected for contraband. Send mail to the facility address, including the detainee's full name and A-Number.
Is medical care provided at the facility?
Yes, NWDC provides medical care to detainees. The facility has on-site medical staff and can arrange for off-site care when necessary.
Notable Detainees
As an immigration detention center, NWDC typically does not house high-profile criminal detainees. However, it has held numerous individuals awaiting immigration proceedings, some of whom have gained attention through activism or legal challenges to their detention.
