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 Albemarle District Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Albemarle District Jail 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 Albemarle District Jail.

Frequently asked questions about Albemarle District Jail

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 Albemarle District Jail.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Albemarle District Jail?

   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 Albemarle District Jail?

   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 Albemarle District Jail. 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 Albemarle District Jail. 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 Albemarle District Jail?

   Mailing address:

   Albemarle District Jail
   210 Executive Dr
   Elizabeth City, NC 27909
   Phone: (252) 335-4844

   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 Albemarle District Jail?

   Visiting hours at Albemarle District Jail 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 (252) 335-4844 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 Albemarle District Jail?

   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 Albemarle District Jail for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Albemarle District Jail?

   You can send money to an inmate at Albemarle District Jail 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 Albemarle District Jail?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Albemarle District Jail, 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 Albemarle District Jail?

   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 Albemarle District Jail 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 Albemarle District Jail, 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 Albemarle District Jail serves the residents of Pasquotank, Perquimans, and Camden Counties with a mission centered on returning individuals to society as contributing members of their communities. This progressive approach typically encompasses comprehensive programming designed to address the underlying factors that may contribute to criminal behavior while preparing individuals for successful reintegration.

Educational and vocational services at the facility may include basic literacy programs, GED preparation courses, and job readiness training to help individuals develop marketable skills. The jail often provides substance abuse counseling and mental health services, recognizing that addressing these issues is crucial for reducing recidivism. Life skills workshops covering topics such as financial management, conflict resolution, and communication skills are commonly offered to help individuals build the foundation needed for community success.

Support services typically extend to religious programming, library access, and recreational activities that promote positive social interaction and personal development. The facility may also coordinate with community organizations to provide additional resources such as reentry planning assistance, housing support, and employment placement services. These comprehensive programs reflect the jail's commitment to utilizing available resources effectively while promoting community involvement in the rehabilitation process, ultimately working toward the goal of enhancing public safety through meaningful offender transformation.

Daily Life & Visitation

Inmates at Albemarle District Jail begin each day within a structured environment designed to serve the citizens of Pasquotank, Perquimans, and Camden Counties. The facility operates under a mission focused on progressive custody practices and community reintegration, which typically influences how daily schedules are organized. Like most North Carolina correctional facilities, the day generally begins early with security counts, followed by meal service and work assignments or programming activities. The jail's emphasis on making effective use of available resources often means that daily routines may include educational opportunities, vocational training, or community service programs designed to prepare individuals for their return to society.

Family connections remain an important part of daily life, though current visitation policies require all visitors to wear masks as part of ongoing health precautions. The facility provides multiple ways for inmates to maintain contact with loved ones, including traditional mail services and money transfer options for commissary purchases. These communication opportunities typically occur during designated times throughout the week, allowing inmates to maintain relationships that support their eventual reintegration into the community.

The jail's commitment to promoting community involvement extends into daily operations, where inmates may participate in work details or programs that benefit the local area. Recreation time, meals, and educational activities are typically scheduled throughout the day, with security counts and lockdown periods ensuring facility safety. The structured environment aims to balance security requirements with rehabilitation opportunities, reflecting the facility's goal of returning individuals to their communities as contributing members of society.