MTC’s Otero County Processing Center recently invested in mobile tablets for detainees. Deputy Warden Karl Frawner explains, “it’s kind of getting us into the 21^st century with the communication and the benefits the tablets provide.”

The tablets are limited and must be shared, but detainees are able to access websites, music, games, and movies approved by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement or ICE. And that’s not all. The tablets also allow the men to message loved ones and even do video visits.

“We get to see our babies,” says Eduardo Salazar. “For me, it makes my day to see my two beautiful kids, and to see my beautiful girlfriend. It really does help you out.”

 

“Many of the men at the Otero County Processing Center live a half a world away on the other side of the globe,” explains Warden Hassel Terry, “and so they don’t get to have visits with their families. It’s exciting to watch these guys talking with their families and their kids jumping up and down with excitement. It’s something they wouldn’t be able to do otherwise.”

Nancy Lee, the Talton Communications representative overseeing the installation of the tablets talks about her experience getting the new tablets set up at the facility.

“Otero Processing Center has been great to work with. It is very evident through all staff members I have interacted with this week that they do care about the detainees. They care about each other. It’s reflected in how I have been treated by not just staff, but by the detainees as well.”

The mobile tablets is another example of the facility’s efforts to provide every service possible to the detainees.

“It’s been beneficial for me,” agrees Mr. Salazar. “I know for sure. [I’m grateful] for the law library, for the Bible, movies; especially the video chats.”

“There are so many things this is going to introduce to our facility,” adds Warden Terry. “We think the detainees will handle it responsibly and will be something that will really add to the quality of life for detainees at Otero County Processing Center.”