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 Alamance County Detention Center.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Alamance County Detention Center 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 Alamance County Detention Center.

Frequently asked questions about Alamance County Detention Center

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 Alamance County Detention Center.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Alamance County Detention Center?

   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 Alamance County Detention Center?

   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 Alamance County Detention Center. 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 Alamance County Detention Center. 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 Alamance County Detention Center?

   Mailing address:

   Alamance County Detention Center
   109 S Maple St
   Graham, NC 27253
   Phone: (336) 570-6317

   Business hours:

   • Monday: Open 24 hours
   • Tuesday: Open 24 hours
   • Wednesday: Open 24 hours
   • Thursday: Open 24 hours
   • Friday: Open 24 hours
   • Saturday: Open 24 hours
   • Sunday: Open 24 hours

5. What are the visiting hours at Alamance County Detention Center?

   Visiting hours at Alamance County Detention Center 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 (336) 570-6317 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 Alamance County Detention Center?

   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 Alamance County Detention Center for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Alamance County Detention Center?

   You can send money to an inmate at Alamance County Detention Center 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 Alamance County Detention Center?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Alamance County Detention Center, 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 Alamance County Detention Center?

   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 Alamance County Detention Center 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 Alamance County Detention Center, 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

Personal growth and skill development form the foundation of rehabilitation services at Alamance County Detention Center. The facility typically focuses on providing inmates with practical tools and educational opportunities that can support their successful reintegration into the community. These services often emphasize building both personal responsibility and marketable skills that may help reduce recidivism.

Educational services may include basic literacy programs, GED preparation, and adult education classes designed to help inmates complete their high school equivalency. Vocational training opportunities often focus on practical skills that can lead to employment after release. These programs typically provide hands-on learning experiences that allow inmates to develop competencies in various trades and technical fields.

Support services also include specialized training in upholstery and barbering/cosmetology, which may offer inmates the opportunity to learn specific trade skills. Additionally, substance abuse programs typically address underlying issues that may have contributed to criminal behavior. These therapeutic services often include counseling and education about addiction recovery, providing inmates with strategies and resources for maintaining sobriety and making positive life changes upon their return to the community.

Daily Life & Visitation

The housing units at Alamance County Detention Center feature dormitory-style and individual cell accommodations that shape how inmates navigate their daily environment. Inmates now follow structured schedules that regularly include meal times, count procedures, and designated periods for various activities. The facility typically operates on a routine that provides predictability, with inmates generally waking early and participating in scheduled programming throughout the day.

Living conditions vary based on housing classification, with some inmates assigned to shared dormitory spaces while others occupy individual cells. The facility provides basic furnishings and personal storage areas for approved belongings. Meals are typically served in designated dining areas or housing units, with inmates following specific protocols for meal distribution. Also, inmates may access commissary services to purchase additional food items and personal care products, which helps them maintain some personal preferences within the structured environment.

Recreation opportunities typically include access to exercise areas and common spaces during designated periods. However, these activities depend on security level and housing assignment. The facility generally provides work assignments that may include kitchen duties, maintenance tasks, and facility cleaning responsibilities. Inmates can typically maintain contact with family through scheduled visitation sessions and phone calls, which provide important emotional support. Also, various programming options may be available to help inmates use their time constructively, though specific offerings can change based on facility resources and scheduling requirements.