How to Send Messages to Inmates

You can use your phone or computer to send emails, letters, and photos to an inmate. Messages are sent electronically to inmate tablets or kiosks at the facility. If you would like to send a message, start by searching for an inmate at Adams County Prison.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Adams County Prison is to send photos and postcards. It only takes a few minutes to send photos from your phone and it makes a huge difference. You can also mail postcards with words of support and inspiration, or design your own postcard for special moments like birthdays and holidays.

Important! Be sure not to send any explicit photos or they may not be approved by the facility. You can also use a photo printing app like Penmate to make sure your photos are printed at the correct size (4x6 or 3x5) and are mailed according to the rules and regulations of Adams County Prison.

Frequently asked questions about Adams County Prison

1. How long does it take to deliver a message?

   If you're sending an email message your letter is usually delivered within 24-48 hours. For messages sent via mail you should expect delivery within 3-7 days. All messages will need be approved by Adams County Prison.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Adams County Prison?

   You can send a message free using your phone or mail a message via USPS for the price of a $0.60 stamp and envelope. You can also purchase credits or e-stamps from services starting at $1.99.

3. What services can I use to contact an inmate at Adams County Prison?

   Penmate

   You can use Penmate to send letters and photos to an inmate from your phone. It's an easy way to stay in touch during your loved one's incarceration. Use the inmate locator to find an inmate's location and contact information, then you can send messages within a few minutes.

   Securus messaging

   Securus may be another option for communicating with an inmate at Adams County Prison. You can create a friends and family account and purchase credits to send messages. All messages will be reviewed and must be approved by the facility.

   JPay

   Some county jails and state prisons may support sending messages with JPay. You must register an account with the system, find your loved one, and purchase stamps to send messages. For some locations you can also attach photos.

   Smart Jail Mail

   You may also check if Smart Jail Mail is available at Adams County Prison. Smart Jail Mail is operated by Smart Communications and has contracted with some state and county jails. After purchasing credits, your messages and photos are sent to the facility, printed out, and then handed out to your loved one.

4. What is the mailing address of Adams County Prison?

   Mailing address:

   Adams County Prison
   45 Major Bell Ln
   Gettysburg, PA 17325
   Phone: (717) 334-7671

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Thursday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Saturday: Closed
   • Sunday: Closed

5. What are the visiting hours at Adams County Prison?

   Visiting hours at Adams County Prison vary by housing unit and security level. Generally, visits are scheduled on weekends and holidays, with some facilities offering weekday visits. Contact the facility directly at (717) 334-7671 or check their website for the current visiting schedule. Visits typically last 30-60 minutes and must be scheduled in advance.

6. What items are prohibited when sending mail to Adams County Prison?

   Prohibited items typically include: cash, personal checks, stamps, stickers, glitter, glue, tape, staples, paperclips, polaroid photos, musical or blank greeting cards, hardcover books, magazines with staples, and any items containing metal or electronics. Only send letters on plain white paper with blue or black ink. Photos must be printed on regular photo paper (no Polaroids). Always check with Adams County Prison for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Adams County Prison?

   You can send money to an inmate at Adams County Prison through several methods: 1) Online using JPay, Access Corrections, or the facility's approved vendor, 2) Money orders mailed directly to the facility with the inmate's name and ID number, 3) Kiosks located in the facility lobby, or 4) Over the phone using a credit or debit card. Fees vary by method, typically ranging from $2.95 to $11.95 per transaction.

8. Can I schedule a video visit with an inmate at Adams County Prison?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Adams County Prison, video visits may be available through services like Penmate, Securus Video Connect, GTL, or ICSolutions. Video visits typically cost $10-20 for 20-30 minutes and must be scheduled in advance. You'll need a computer or smartphone with a camera and reliable internet connection. Contact the facility for their specific video visitation policies and approved vendors.

9. What identification do I need to visit an inmate at Adams County Prison?

   All visitors must present valid government-issued photo identification such as a driver's license, state ID, passport, or military ID. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who can provide the minor's birth certificate. Some facilities require visitors to be on the inmate's approved visitation list, which may require a background check. Contact Adams County Prison for specific ID requirements and visitor approval procedures.

10. How can I find out an inmate's release date?

    To find an inmate's release date at Adams County Prison, you can: 1) Use the online inmate search tool if available, 2) Call the facility's records department, 3) Contact the inmate's case manager or counselor, or 4) Have the inmate provide this information during a call or visit. For privacy reasons, some facilities only release this information to immediate family members.

Programs & Services

The Adams County Adult Correctional Complex emphasizes progressive correctional programming through its comprehensive Education Program, which operates in conjunction with Act 30 Program services and LIU#12 Alternative Education. These educational initiatives form the foundation of the facility's rehabilitative approach, working alongside pre-trial supervision programs and community re-entry services to support inmates' successful transition back into society. The facility's Work Release Program provides eligible inmates with opportunities to maintain employment while serving their sentences, helping to preserve family connections and develop job skills that will benefit them upon release.

Treatment and rehabilitative services at the complex typically include substance abuse counseling, mental health support, and various therapeutic programs designed to address underlying issues that may have contributed to criminal behavior. Religious services are available to inmates of different faiths, providing spiritual guidance and support during incarceration. The facility may also offer vocational training programs, life skills workshops, and anger management classes to help inmates develop practical abilities and coping strategies for their eventual reintegration into the community.

The complex maintains strong communication channels with families and the community through its visitation program and online services through Connect Network, which allows families to manage account transactions and stay connected with incarcerated loved ones. Additional support services may include medical and dental care, library access, recreational activities, and case management services that help coordinate inmates' participation in various programs. The facility's commitment to accountability and comprehensive programming reflects its mission to protect public safety while providing meaningful opportunities for rehabilitation and personal growth.

Daily Life & Visitation

The Adams County Adult Correctional Complex operates under a structured environment designed to balance security with rehabilitative programming for inmates housed within the facility. According to facility documentation, inmates have access to educational opportunities through the Education Program and Act 30 Program in partnership with LIU#12 Alternative Education, which may provide structured learning activities during designated hours of the day.

Visitation at the facility follows specific guidelines outlined in the visitor information section, with established dress codes and scheduled visitation times that families should verify regularly for any updates or changes. The facility utilizes Connect Network services to help families manage account transactions online, allowing them to stay connected with their incarcerated loved ones through approved communication methods. Inmates typically follow a daily routine that may include educational programming, work assignments, meals at designated times, and recreational periods, though specific schedules would be determined by the facility's operational needs and security classification levels.

The complex emphasizes both security and rehabilitation through what they describe as "progressive and comprehensive correctional and rehabilitative services," which likely influences the daily structure inmates experience. Religious services and treatment programs are available as part of the facility's rehabilitative approach, and inmates may participate in these programs based on their individual needs and security status. The facility also offers work release program opportunities for eligible inmates, which would involve different daily schedules and responsibilities for those participants compared to the general population.