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 Barry County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Barry County 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 Barry County Jail.

Frequently asked questions about Barry County 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 Barry County Jail.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Barry County 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 Barry County 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 Barry County 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 Barry County 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 Barry County Jail?

   Mailing address:

   Barry County Jail
   505 East St
   Cassville, MO 65625
   Phone: (417) 847-3461

   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 Barry County Jail?

   Visiting hours at Barry County 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 (417) 847-3461 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 Barry County 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 Barry County Jail for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Barry County Jail?

   You can send money to an inmate at Barry County 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 Barry County Jail?

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

The Barry County Jail maintains structured communication and visitation programs designed to help inmates maintain important family connections during their incarceration. With weekly visitation sessions scheduled exclusively on Wednesdays, the facility requires inmates to take an active role in scheduling their visits, promoting personal responsibility while ensuring families can stay connected. The jail has modernized its communication system through CTC services, offering inmates multiple ways to contact loved ones including voice calls, video calls, and text messaging capabilities.

Beyond communication services, Barry County Jail typically provides essential support programs common to correctional facilities in Missouri. These may include educational opportunities such as GED preparation classes, basic literacy programs, and life skills workshops that help prepare inmates for successful reintegration into the community. The facility often offers substance abuse counseling and mental health services, recognizing that addressing underlying issues is crucial for reducing recidivism. Work programs and vocational training opportunities may also be available, allowing inmates to develop job skills and maintain productive routines during their incarceration.

The jail’s commissary system enables inmates to purchase personal items and necessities, promoting self-sufficiency while incarcerated. Religious services and counseling programs are typically available to address spiritual needs and provide additional support networks. Medical and mental health services ensure that inmates receive necessary healthcare during their stay. These comprehensive services work together to create an environment focused not just on secure detention, but on providing inmates with tools and support systems that may help them make positive changes in their lives.

Daily Life & Visitation

Communication with loved ones operates on a structured schedule at Barry County Jail, with visitation limited to once weekly on Wednesdays dedicated. Inmates must personally schedule these visits, and visitors are required to arrive 10 minutes before their appointed time with valid photo identification. The facility maintains strict dress code requirements for visitors, prohibiting revealing clothing, requiring appropriate coverage, and ensuring no see-through materials or excessively short garments are worn during visits.

The jail’s communication system has transitioned to a digital platform through CTC, allowing inmates to make voice calls at $0.35 per minute, video calls at $0.50 per minute, or send text messages for $0.50 each. Family members can establish accounts through www.citytelecoin.com or by calling the service provider directly. This system provides inmates with multiple ways to maintain contact with their support networks, though phone cards are being phased out in favor of the account-based system.

Throughout their stay, inmates typically follow structured daily routines that may include scheduled meal times, recreational periods, and work assignments when available. The facility operates with specific lobby hours Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., with weekends closed for most services. Most personal items inmates need can be purchased through their commissary accounts, though the facility has strict policies limiting outside drop-offs, with the exception of pre-stamped postcards that must be purchased through the Post Office. Emergency assistance remains available through non-emergency dispatch or jail staff contact numbers when the lobby is closed.