Otay Mesa Detention Center: A Complete Guide for Families

The Otay Mesa Detention Center, located in Southern San Diego County, plays a significant role in the federal and immigration detention system. Operated by a private company under federal contract, this facility houses individuals detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the U.S. Marshals Service. If someone you care about has been detained at this facility, understanding how it works and how to respond quickly can make all the difference.

Where Is Otay Mesa Detention Center Located?

The facility is situated in the Otay Mesa area, near the U.S.-Mexico border. Here is the address:

Otay Mesa Detention Center
7488 Calzada de la Fuente
San Diego, CA 92154

Its location in a relatively remote part of San Diego means that legal representatives, family members, and support professionals must plan carefully when visiting or coordinating services with the facility.

Who Is Detained at Otay Mesa?

The Otay Mesa Detention Center houses a mix of individuals under federal custody, including:

Immigration detainees held by ICE pending removal or asylum hearings
Federal pre-trial detainees under the U.S. Marshals Service
Individuals awaiting transfer to other federal or immigration detention centers

The detainee population often includes both men and women, and the facility is operated by CoreCivic, a private corrections management company under contract with the federal government.

Can You Post Bail for Someone at Otay Mesa?

Yes, in some cases. However, the type of bail and whether it’s allowed depends on the agency holding the individual:

ICE Detainees: May be eligible for an immigration bond set by ICE or an immigration judge. This is different from criminal bail and involves different processes and requirements.
U.S. Marshals Detainees: Federal bail may be granted by a magistrate judge and can include cash bail, property bonds, or conditions for supervised release.

Because immigration and federal criminal cases involve unique bail procedures, it’s critical to work with a licensed bail bonds service that understands both systems. At The San Diego Bail Bonds Pros, we assist clients dealing with complex federal and immigration detention cases and can help determine the most effective way to seek release.

How Immigration Bonds Work

If your loved one is held by ICE, an immigration bond may be available. These bonds fall into two main categories:

Delivery Bond: Allows the detainee to be released while attending all immigration hearings.
Voluntary Departure Bond: Grants release on the condition the detainee will leave the U.S. voluntarily within a set timeframe.

Immigration bonds are usually paid in full to ICE and refunded (minus fees) once the terms are met. A licensed bail bond agent can also help post these bonds using collateral and payment plans.

Visitation and Communication at Otay Mesa

Visitation at Otay Mesa Detention Center is subject to strict rules and schedules, which differ depending on whether the detainee is under ICE or federal custody. Visitors must be approved and must present valid identification. All visits are non-contact and closely monitored.

Detainees may also have access to phone calls, legal counsel, and mail. Since procedures and policies can change, it’s always best to confirm visitation schedules and communication rules before making plans.

Common Charges and Reasons for Detention

Those held at Otay Mesa may be facing a range of federal or immigration issues, such as:

Overstaying a visa or unlawful entry (ICE custody)
Pending asylum or deportation hearings
Federal charges like smuggling, drug trafficking, or fraud
Awaiting transfer from county jail to a federal prison

Many of these cases are complex and time-sensitive. Whether the detainee faces criminal charges or immigration proceedings, immediate action is often necessary to secure their release and begin legal defense efforts.

Why Work with The San Diego Bail Bonds Pros?

Handling a case involving Otay Mesa Detention Center requires more than just knowledge of the bail process—it demands a deep understanding of federal and immigration systems. At The San Diego Bail Bonds Pros, we specialize in helping families through these difficult moments by offering:

24/7 availability for emergencies
Assistance with federal and immigration bonds
Flexible payment options for qualifying individuals
Compassionate, confidential service tailored to your situation

Our team works directly with attorneys, court clerks, and federal agencies to move quickly and efficiently. We know how urgent these cases are—and we’re here to help you act fast.

Take the First Step—Contact Us Today

If your loved one is detained at the Otay Mesa Detention Center, you don’t have to navigate the situation alone. The team at The San Diego Bail Bonds Pros is ready to answer your questions and help secure their release through the appropriate legal channels.