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 Allegany County Detention Center.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Allegany 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 Allegany County Detention Center.

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

   Mailing address:

   Allegany County Detention Center
   14300 McMullen Hwy SW
   Cumberland, MD 21502
   Phone: (301) 729-8540

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

   Visiting hours at Allegany 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 (301) 729-8540 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 Allegany 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 Allegany County Detention Center for their specific mail policies.

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

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

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Allegany 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 Allegany 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 Allegany 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 Allegany 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

Virtual visitation through paytel.com serves as the primary connection point between residents and their families at Allegany County Detention Center, with free video visits available using on-site equipment and fee-based options for personal devices. This technology-focused approach to maintaining family relationships typically supports broader rehabilitation efforts that may include educational programming, substance abuse counseling, and pre-release planning services commonly found in Maryland correctional facilities.

The facility often provides educational opportunities that may include GED preparation, basic literacy programs, and life skills training designed to prepare residents for successful reintegration. Counseling services typically encompass substance abuse treatment, mental health support, and behavioral intervention programs that address underlying issues contributing to criminal behavior. These programs are often complemented by vocational training opportunities that may focus on practical skills such as food service, maintenance, or computer literacy.

Support services at the detention center may include medical and mental health care, chaplaincy programs offering spiritual guidance, and case management assistance to help residents connect with community resources upon release. Pre-release planning services typically help individuals secure housing, employment opportunities, and continued treatment services, while library access and recreational activities may provide constructive outlets during incarceration. These comprehensive programming efforts generally aim to reduce recidivism and support successful community reentry for residents.

Daily Life & Visitation

Virtual connections with loved ones form a central part of the experience for individuals housed at Allegany County Detention Center in Maryland. The facility has transitioned to an entirely virtual visitation system, eliminating traditional in-person visits in favor of video calls managed through paytel.com. Residents can connect with family and friends through scheduled video visits, with those using the facility's on-site equipment available at no charge, while visits conducted on personal devices typically incur a fee.

The structured environment at this Maryland detention facility likely follows common correctional protocols, with residents typically awakening to scheduled counts and meal service. Days may include educational programming, work assignments, and recreational periods, though specific schedules can vary based on housing assignments and individual circumstances. Medical services, commissary access, and library time are often incorporated into the weekly routine, providing residents with opportunities to maintain their health, purchase personal items, and access reading materials or legal resources.

Communication with the outside world extends beyond video visitation, as residents may have access to telephone services and correspondence privileges under facility guidelines. The detention center typically maintains security protocols while working to preserve family connections that can be crucial for successful reintegration. Staff members generally oversee daily operations to ensure safety while providing necessary services, and residents are expected to follow established rules and participate in available programs during their stay.