How do I confirm someone is at the Strafford jail and get visit times?
Try ice.gov/locator with the A-number and country of birth; a misspelled name can come back empty. ICE's page, updated August 6, 2026, then gives (603) 742-3310 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.; the county says it answers 24 hours a day. ICE publishes no timetable: visits are generally available daily, assigned by housing location, and non-contact. County rules say the person books their own times, up to two one-hour visits a week, at most one a day, and tells visitors. Video visits use tablets; in-person visits are limited. The ICE facility list says nothing about who is held at this Dover county jail.
Could I be turned away at the Dover jail?
Yes. These county rules cover inmates generally and may also apply to ICE detainees, so ask. Anyone with pending criminal charges or under Community Corrections, Probation or Parole supervision is denied. A former inmate must be immediate family and have written permission. Each visit allows two adults and two lap-size children, and a larger child counts as an adult. Arrive 15 minutes early with government ID. Clear the metal detector, or bring a doctor's documentation if a medical issue sets it off. Skirts and shorts may sit no more than 4 inches above the knee. Sleeveless tops, tank tops, halters, hats and phones are out.
Can I mail a letter, or will it be refused?
The two official pages differ, so call first. ICE's page describes letters carrying the last four digits of the A-number plus the sender's name and address. The county's FAQ says the jail does not accept any mail for inmates without prior approval, and offers messaging through the Connect Network instead. Neither county page singles out ICE detainees. A lawyer should ask about legal mail too, since ICE says only legal mail is forwarded after a transfer or release. Tablets for non-confidential messages are described at gettingout.com.
How do I add money, or drop off items for release?
ICE's page lists no commissary or phone account details, so these come from the county. Make a money order payable to Strafford County Commissary, with the person's name in the memo, and mail it to 266 County Farm Road, Dover, NH 03820. You can also use web.connectnetwork.com or the cash kiosk in the bail and release lobby; both carry fees. Property is different. ICE accepts only items needed for travel or release, with ICE deportation officer approval and no electronic devices. Drop-off is 1000 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., in Massachusetts rather than Dover.
Who handles the case, and which court?
The Boston Field Office covers New Hampshire from Burlington, Massachusetts, at (781) 359-7500. ICE gives (781) 359-7660 for identifying a deportation officer when a G-28 is on file, and Boston.Outreach@ice.dhs.gov for case information. EOIR's list, updated October 1, 2026, places Strafford County House of Corrections under the Chelmsford Immigration Court, which keeps the records. Check the actual date and place with our guide to finding a hearing. Lawyers may visit at any time and can arrange video sessions Tuesday through Thursday at 6, 7 or 8 p.m.