Detention conditions are different at each detention center. ICE has standards that are supposed to govern detention conditions: the National Detention Standards (NDS) and Performance-Based National Detention Standards (PBNDS). Every center within the Chicago district are subject to the NDS. The McHenry County Correctional Facility is subject to the PBNDS. 

Unfortunately, these conditions are not often met. You should report any problems that you notice with a detention center's conditions. The National Immigrant Justice Center (NIJC) keeps track of reports about problems with detention conditions. You can contact NIJC at (773)-672-6599. Detained immigrants can call collect using 312-583-9721. You can also contact your US Senator or Representative, or the one for the district where the detention center is located.

Can a detainee file a grievance if they are mistreated?

Yes. A detainee may file a formal grievance at any time. The facility may not impose a time limit on when a grievance may be submitted.

Can I visit a person in immigration detention?

Yes. All detention centers in this area allow visitation. You can find the hours of visitation by calling the detention center. However, some centers only allow visitation by video-conference. Most centers require that a visitor have valid photo ID when they visit. Some centers do not accept a consular ID (matricula).

Can a person in detention talk on the phone?

Yes. Some facilities allow detainees to buy phone cards that they can use to make calls. Others only allow detainees to make collect calls. This requires you to set up a special account on your phone.

Can I send mail to a person in immigration custody?

Yes. But the detention center may not allow you to send certain kinds of mail. You can find out what items are not allowed by calling the detention center.

Can I send money to a person in immigration custody?

Yes. Each center allows you to add money to a detainee’s commissary account. They can then use to order items through the jail. To add money to a detainee’s commissary account, you will need to know their detention ID number. Some of the centers have kiosks to add money. Others require that a money order be mailed in or money sent via an online website. You will need to call the center to find out its specific procedures.