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 Arizona State Prison-Phoenix.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Arizona State Prison-Phoenix 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 Arizona State Prison-Phoenix.

Frequently asked questions about Arizona State Prison-Phoenix

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 Arizona State Prison-Phoenix.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Arizona State Prison-Phoenix?

   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 Arizona State Prison-Phoenix?

   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 Arizona State Prison-Phoenix. 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 Arizona State Prison-Phoenix. 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 Arizona State Prison-Phoenix?

   Mailing address:

   Arizona State Prison-Phoenix
   3402 W Cocopah St
   Phoenix, AZ 85009
   Phone: (602) 352-0350

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Thursday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Saturday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Sunday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM

5. What are the visiting hours at Arizona State Prison-Phoenix?

   Visiting hours at Arizona State Prison-Phoenix 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 (602) 352-0350 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 Arizona State Prison-Phoenix?

   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 Arizona State Prison-Phoenix for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Arizona State Prison-Phoenix?

   You can send money to an inmate at Arizona State Prison-Phoenix 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 Arizona State Prison-Phoenix?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Arizona State Prison-Phoenix, 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 Arizona State Prison-Phoenix?

   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 Arizona State Prison-Phoenix 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 Arizona State Prison-Phoenix, 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 becomes possible when inmates have access to comprehensive services designed to address the root causes of criminal behavior. ASP-Phoenix West typically focuses on creating pathways for meaningful change through evidence-based programming that targets both immediate needs and long-term success. The facility's approach often emphasizes skill-building and personal accountability, recognizing that effective rehabilitation requires addressing multiple aspects of an individual's life circumstances.

Educational services form a cornerstone of the facility's offerings, with adult basic education programs helping inmates develop fundamental academic skills. These education programs may provide opportunities for inmates to earn their GED or improve literacy levels, creating a foundation for future employment and personal development. Furthermore, vocational training opportunities often include specialized instruction in commercial driving (CDL) preparation, equipping participants with marketable skills that can support successful reintegration into the community.

Work programs typically offer inmates practical experience while contributing to facility operations, with opportunities in areas such as painting and decorating that develop both technical skills and work habits. The facility may provide therapeutic services addressing specific behavioral issues, including substance abuse treatment for those struggling with addiction-related challenges. Additionally, specialized programming such as sex offender treatment often targets the specific therapeutic needs of certain populations, utilizing structured approaches designed to reduce recidivism risk and promote behavioral change.

Daily Life & Visitation

The housing units at ASP-Phoenix West feature dormitory-style living arrangements where inmates share common areas and sleeping quarters. Inmates currently adapt to structured daily schedules that begin early in the morning with count procedures and continue through evening lockdown. The facility typically maintains consistent routines that provide predictability, helping residents adjust to their environment over time.

Living accommodations generally include shared sleeping areas with basic furnishings and personal storage space for approved items. Furthermore, inmates may access commissary services to purchase additional personal care items and snacks within established spending limits. The dining hall serves three meals daily at designated times, with inmates moving in organized groups according to their housing assignments. Although the physical environment requires adjustment, many inmates develop coping strategies and form supportive relationships with fellow residents.

Work assignments provide structure and may include kitchen duties, maintenance tasks, or facility cleaning responsibilities. Recreation opportunities typically offer outdoor exercise time and access to television viewing areas during designated hours. Visitation policies generally allow family members to schedule visits according to established procedures, while telephone access and mail correspondence continue to serve as important communication methods. Educational programming and religious services often supplement daily activities, giving inmates additional ways to spend their time constructively while maintaining connections to their support systems.