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 Barren County Detention Center.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Barren 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 Barren County Detention Center.

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

   Mailing address:

   Barren County Detention Center
   201 Samson St
   Glasgow, KY 42141
   Phone: (270) 651-8806

   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: Closed

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

   Visiting hours at Barren 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 (270) 651-8806 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 Barren 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 Barren County Detention Center for their specific mail policies.

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

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

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

The Barren County Detention Center operates with a clear mission to protect public and institutional safety while providing programs specifically designed to reduce the likelihood of re-incarceration. This rehabilitation-focused approach typically encompasses educational opportunities that may include GED preparation and basic literacy programs, helping residents develop essential academic skills for successful reintegration. The facility often provides substance abuse counseling and treatment programs, recognizing that addressing underlying addiction issues is crucial for breaking the cycle of incarceration.

Vocational training programs may be available to help residents develop marketable job skills, potentially including basic computer literacy, food service training, or maintenance skills. Mental health services are typically offered through counseling sessions and support groups, addressing the psychological challenges that many residents face. The facility may also provide life skills programs that cover topics such as financial literacy, job search techniques, and communication skills.

Religious services and spiritual counseling are commonly available, offering residents additional support systems during their incarceration. The detention center may facilitate family visitation programs and maintain communication opportunities to help preserve important relationships. Work programs within the facility often provide residents with structure and responsibility while contributing to facility operations. These comprehensive services work together to support the facility's mission of reducing recidivism and promoting successful community reintegration.

Daily Life & Visitation

The Barren County Detention Center in Glasgow, Kentucky operates with a clear mission to protect public and institutional safety while offering programs designed to reduce recidivism. Located at 201 Samson Street, the facility maintains regular office hours from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM for administrative matters and public inquiries. Under the leadership of Jailer Aaron Shirley, the detention center emphasizes both security protocols and rehabilitative opportunities for inmates in their care.

Inmates at the facility typically follow structured daily schedules that may include meal times, recreational periods, and access to programming when available. The detention center often provides basic amenities such as medical care, commissary services, and opportunities for inmates to maintain contact with their families through visitation and telephone privileges. Like many Kentucky correctional facilities, visiting procedures and communication policies are generally designed to balance security requirements with the importance of maintaining family connections during incarceration.

The facility's commitment to reducing re-incarceration suggests that inmates may have access to various educational or vocational programs during their stay. Daily routines often incorporate time for these rehabilitative activities alongside standard institutional operations such as meals, counts, and recreational periods. Families seeking information about specific policies or procedures can contact the detention center directly at 270-651-8806, as circumstances and rules may change without notice due to legal requirements or operational needs.