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 Bartholomew County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Bartholomew 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 Bartholomew County Jail.

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

   Mailing address:

   Bartholomew County Jail
   543 2nd St
   Columbus, IN 47201
   Phone: (812) 379-1650

5. What are the visiting hours at Bartholomew County Jail?

   Visiting hours at Bartholomew 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 (812) 379-1650 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 Bartholomew 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 Bartholomew County Jail for their specific mail policies.

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

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

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

Through comprehensive programming designed to address individual needs, the population at Bartholomew County Jail receives targeted support that focuses on personal development and successful community reintegration. The facility's approach emphasizes building essential life skills while addressing underlying challenges that may have contributed to incarceration. These programs typically operate with the understanding that meaningful change occurs through consistent participation and access to resources that strengthen both personal capabilities and community connections.

Educational programs form a cornerstone of the supportive services available to participants. The population may access basic literacy instruction, GED preparation courses, and ESL classes that help non-native speakers develop English proficiency for better employment prospects upon release. In addition to this educational foundation, vocational training opportunities often include hands-on instruction in trades such as carpentry, which provides marketable skills and practical experience. These programs typically emphasize both technical competency and workplace readiness, preparing participants for sustainable employment in their communities.

Support services extend beyond academic and vocational training to address the broader needs of the population. Faith-based programs may offer spiritual guidance and community connection for those seeking this form of support during their incarceration. Family reunification services often focus on rebuilding and strengthening relationships with loved ones, recognizing that strong family bonds contribute significantly to successful reintegration. These supportive programs typically work together to create a comprehensive network of resources that addresses the multiple factors influencing long-term success after release.

Daily Life & Visitation

Organizational frameworks at present actively shape every aspect of the daily experience for the population housed within Bartholomew County Jail. The facility typically operates on a structured schedule that begins with early morning counts and continues through designated periods for meals, programming, and recreation. Housing units generally follow a pod-style configuration where residents are assigned to specific areas based on classification levels and security requirements. Staff members usually conduct regular rounds and supervise activities throughout each shift, maintaining order through established protocols and clear expectations.

Living accommodations typically consist of shared cells or dormitory-style housing units, with the population generally having access to basic amenities including bedding, personal hygiene items, and limited personal property storage. In addition to this structured housing arrangement, meals are usually served at designated times in common areas or delivered to housing units, depending on security levels and facility operations. The commissary system often supplies additional food items and personal care products that residents may purchase with funds from their accounts.

Despite this controlled environment, the facility may offer various programs and activities that supply structure to daily routines. Recreation opportunities typically include access to dayrooms, television viewing, and scheduled outdoor time when weather and security conditions permit. Work assignments within the facility often provide residents with responsibilities such as kitchen duties, cleaning tasks, or maintenance work. Programming schedules usually include educational classes, substance abuse counseling, or religious services. Family connections are generally maintained through scheduled visitation periods and telephone privileges, allowing the population to stay in contact with their support systems while serving their time.