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 Allen County Sheriff's Office & Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Allen County Sheriff's Office & 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 Allen County Sheriff's Office & Jail.

Frequently asked questions about Allen County Sheriff's Office & 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 Allen County Sheriff's Office & Jail.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Allen County Sheriff's Office & 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 Allen County Sheriff's Office & 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 Allen County Sheriff's Office & 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 Allen County Sheriff's Office & 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 Allen County Sheriff's Office & Jail?

   Mailing address:

   Allen County Sheriff's Office & Jail
   333 N Main St
   Lima, OH 45801
   Phone: (419) 227-3535

   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 Allen County Sheriff's Office & Jail?

   Visiting hours at Allen County Sheriff's Office & 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 (419) 227-3535 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 Allen County Sheriff's Office & 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 Allen County Sheriff's Office & Jail for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Allen County Sheriff's Office & Jail?

   You can send money to an inmate at Allen County Sheriff's Office & 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 Allen County Sheriff's Office & Jail?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Allen County Sheriff's Office & 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 Allen County Sheriff's Office & 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 Allen County Sheriff's Office & 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 Allen County Sheriff's Office & 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

Multiple pathways for personal development and skill-building create a foundation for positive change at Allen County Jail. The facility typically recognizes that meaningful opportunities during incarceration can significantly impact an individual's ability to successfully reintegrate into the community. Through a range of educational, vocational, and support services, individuals may access resources designed to address various aspects of personal growth and practical preparation for release.

Educational initiatives often include basic literacy programs, GED preparation, and adult education courses that help individuals develop fundamental academic skills. Furthermore, job training opportunities may provide hands-on experience in areas such as construction trades, food service, or maintenance work. These vocational programs typically focus on teaching marketable skills that can translate into employment opportunities upon release, giving participants practical experience alongside classroom instruction.

Recovery services form another essential component of the comprehensive programming, often addressing substance abuse issues through counseling and group therapy sessions. Furthermore, housing assistance and transitional planning services may help individuals prepare for the practical challenges of reentry. These support opportunities typically include case management services that connect participants with community resources, assistance in securing identification documents, and guidance in developing realistic post-release plans that support long-term stability and success.

Daily Life & Visitation

The sound of breakfast trays signals the beginning of another structured day for individuals housed at Allen County Jail. Today typically begins with early morning counts and meal service, followed by consistently scheduled activities that provide routine and purpose. Generally, individuals wake before dawn for the first of several daily headcounts, with breakfast served shortly after in designated dining areas or delivered directly to housing units depending on security classifications.

Living accommodations vary throughout the facility, with individuals assigned to different housing units based on classification levels and specific needs. Furthermore, each housing area typically includes basic amenities such as sleeping quarters, common areas, and access to restroom facilities. Although space may be limited, individuals usually have designated areas for personal belongings and access to commissary items when available. The facility generally maintains different housing sections to accommodate various security levels and special populations.

Structured programming schedules offer individuals opportunities for education, vocational training, and recreational activities when available. Although programming options may vary, individuals typically have access to library services, television viewing during designated hours, and outdoor recreation time when weather and security conditions permit. Furthermore, family connections remain important through scheduled visitation periods and telephone access, helping individuals maintain relationships with loved ones. Work assignments within the facility often include food service, cleaning duties, and maintenance tasks that provide structure and may offer small compensation or commissary credits.