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 Anderson County Detention Center.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Anderson 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 Anderson County Detention Center.

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

   Mailing address:

   Anderson County Detention Center
   1009 David Lee Coffee Pl
   Anderson, SC 29625
   Phone: (864) 260-4363

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Tuesday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Wednesday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Thursday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Friday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Saturday: Closed
   • Sunday: Closed

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

   Visiting hours at Anderson 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 (864) 260-4363 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 Anderson 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 Anderson County Detention Center for their specific mail policies.

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

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

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

Based on the available information, Anderson County Jail in Palestine, Texas provides structured visitation services that include public inmate visitation, attorney/legal visitation, and specialized registration processes. The facility utilizes a digital scheduling system to manage these visits, demonstrating a commitment to maintaining family connections and ensuring proper legal access for inmates.

The jail typically offers various support programs designed to assist inmates during their incarceration. These may include educational opportunities such as GED preparation classes, basic literacy programs, and life skills training. Vocational programs often focus on practical skills development, potentially including job readiness training, computer literacy, and trade-related instruction. The facility may also provide substance abuse counseling, mental health services, and anger management programs to address underlying issues that contribute to criminal behavior.

Additional services at Anderson County Jail likely encompass religious and spiritual programs, recreational activities, and library access to support inmates' personal development and rehabilitation. The facility may coordinate with local organizations to offer job placement assistance and transitional support services for individuals preparing for release. Medical and dental care are typically provided on-site, along with medication management for inmates with chronic conditions. These comprehensive services work together to create a structured environment that promotes personal growth and successful community reintegration.

Daily Life & Visitation

The Anderson County Sheriff's Office at 1200 East Lacy Street in Palestine operates a comprehensive visitation system that connects inmates with their families and legal representatives through scheduled appointments. The facility offers multiple visitation categories including public/inmate visits and attorney/legal consultations, with an online scheduling system managed through TarmacTech that allows families to book visits in advance by contacting (903) 729-6069.

Inmates at the Anderson County Jail typically follow structured daily routines that may include scheduled meal times, recreational periods, and educational or work programs depending on their classification level. The facility likely maintains standard security protocols while providing opportunities for inmates to participate in various activities that support rehabilitation and maintain connections with the outside community. Housing arrangements are typically organized by classification levels, with dormitory-style or individual cell accommodations based on factors such as security risk and behavior.

Communication with family members extends beyond in-person visitation, as most county facilities offer phone privileges and may provide access to written correspondence. The jail's commitment to maintaining family connections is evident through their organized visitation system, which helps inmates maintain important relationships during their incarceration. Medical care, meals, and basic necessities are provided as part of the facility's daily operations, ensuring inmates' fundamental needs are met while serving their sentences or awaiting court proceedings.