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 Berrien County Sheriff's Department.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Berrien County Sheriff's Department 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 Berrien County Sheriff's Department.

Frequently asked questions about Berrien County Sheriff's Department

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 Berrien County Sheriff's Department.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Berrien County Sheriff's Department?

   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 Berrien County Sheriff's Department?

   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 Berrien County Sheriff's Department. 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 Berrien County Sheriff's Department. 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 Berrien County Sheriff's Department?

   Mailing address:

   Berrien County Sheriff's Department
   919 Port St
   St Joseph, MI 49085
   Phone: (269) 983-7141

5. What are the visiting hours at Berrien County Sheriff's Department?

   Visiting hours at Berrien County Sheriff's Department 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 (269) 983-7141 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 Berrien County Sheriff's Department?

   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 Berrien County Sheriff's Department for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Berrien County Sheriff's Department?

   You can send money to an inmate at Berrien County Sheriff's Department 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 Berrien County Sheriff's Department?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Berrien County Sheriff's Department, 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 Berrien County Sheriff's Department?

   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 Berrien County Sheriff's Department 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 Berrien County Sheriff's Department, 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

Support flows through carefully structured programs designed to address the diverse needs of the population at Berrien County Jail. The facility typically emphasizes a comprehensive approach that recognizes successful reintegration requires addressing educational gaps, mental health challenges, and practical life skills. These programs often focus on building foundations that help participants make positive changes and prepare for their return to the community.

Educational opportunities may include vocational education programs that provide hands-on training in practical skills. The facility often offers education programs designed to help participants complete their high school equivalency or develop basic academic skills. These educational initiatives typically focus on building confidence and providing tangible qualifications that can support employment opportunities upon release.

Moreover, therapeutic and support services play a central role in addressing underlying challenges. Mental health counseling may be available to help participants work through personal difficulties and develop healthy coping strategies. The prisoner reentry initiative often includes components focused on decision making skills, helping the population learn to evaluate choices and consequences more effectively. Family reunification programs typically work to rebuild and strengthen relationships, recognizing that strong family connections often support successful community reintegration and reduce the likelihood of future involvement in the justice system.

Daily Life & Visitation

Structured scheduling and clear organizational protocols shape every aspect of the experience for the population at Berrien County Jail. At present, daily routines revolve around established meal times, housing unit protocols, and facility operations that actively maintain order throughout the facility. The population typically follows a structured schedule that includes designated periods for meals, recreation, and various programming activities, with staff coordinating movement between different areas of the facility.

Housing arrangements generally consist of dormitory-style units and individual cells, depending on classification levels and available space. The population typically shares common areas within their designated housing units, where they may access television, tables for games or reading, and basic recreational materials. Meals are usually served in designated dining areas or delivered to housing units, with the facility providing three meals daily that meet nutritional standards. Moreover, commissary services allow the population to purchase additional food items, personal hygiene products, and other approved supplies to supplement their basic needs.

Programming schedules supply structure through various educational opportunities, work assignments, and recreational activities that may include library access, fitness equipment, and outdoor recreation time when weather permits. Visitation typically occurs through scheduled appointments, with both in-person and video visitation options often available to maintain family connections. Whereas communication with loved ones may include phone calls and written correspondence, these services generally operate within established guidelines and scheduling parameters. Work assignments within the facility often include kitchen duties, cleaning responsibilities, and maintenance tasks that help the population contribute to daily operations while developing job skills.