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 Big Muddy River Correctional.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Big Muddy River Correctional 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 Big Muddy River Correctional.

Frequently asked questions about Big Muddy River Correctional

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 Big Muddy River Correctional.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Big Muddy River Correctional?

   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 Big Muddy River Correctional?

   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 Big Muddy River Correctional. 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 Big Muddy River Correctional. 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 Big Muddy River Correctional?

   Mailing address:

   Big Muddy River Correctional
   251 IL-37
   Ina, IL 62846
   Phone: (618) 437-5300

   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 Big Muddy River Correctional?

   Visiting hours at Big Muddy River Correctional 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 (618) 437-5300 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 Big Muddy River Correctional?

   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 Big Muddy River Correctional for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Big Muddy River Correctional?

   You can send money to an inmate at Big Muddy River Correctional 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 Big Muddy River Correctional?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Big Muddy River Correctional, 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 Big Muddy River Correctional?

   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 Big Muddy River Correctional 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 Big Muddy River Correctional, 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

A structured approach to personal development guides the comprehensive opportunities available to individuals at Big Muddy River Correctional Center. The facility typically emphasizes skill-building and preparation for successful community reintegration through diverse programming options. This multi-faceted approach recognizes that meaningful change often requires addressing various aspects of an individual’s life and circumstances.

Educational opportunities may include basic literacy instruction, GED preparation, and vocational training programs designed to develop marketable skills. These educational services often focus on practical applications that translate directly to employment opportunities upon release. Additionally, vocational programs typically cover areas such as construction trades, food service, and maintenance skills that provide hands-on experience and industry-relevant training.

Support services and therapeutic opportunities round out the comprehensive programming structure. Mental health treatment services may offer individual and group counseling to address underlying issues that contribute to criminal behavior. Religious services often provide spiritual guidance and community connection for those seeking faith-based support. The facility may also include recycling programs that teach environmental responsibility while developing work habits, community service opportunities that foster civic engagement, and reentry preparation services that help individuals navigate the transition back to their communities. These varied opportunities work together to address the complex needs individuals face during incarceration and beyond.

Daily Life & Visitation

The sound of morning announcements typically marks the beginning of another structured day for individuals housed at Big Muddy River Correctional Center. At present, residents actively participate in a regimented schedule that generally includes designated times for meals, programming, work assignments, and personal activities. The facility operates on a predictable routine that helps maintain order while providing opportunities for personal development and skill building.

Living accommodations at the facility typically consist of shared housing units where individuals may have roommates and access to basic amenities. Each person usually receives a designated sleeping area, storage space for approved personal belongings, and access to common areas within their housing section. Additionally, the facility generally provides three meals daily in a centralized dining area, with menu options that aim to meet basic nutritional requirements. Individuals often have opportunities to purchase additional items through the commissary system, which may include snacks, hygiene products, and writing materials.

While daily routines remain structured, the facility typically offers various recreational and educational programming designed to support rehabilitation goals. Work assignments may include kitchen duties, maintenance tasks, or facility operations that provide individuals with practical experience and responsibility. Additionally, visitation policies generally allow for regular contact with family members and approved visitors, often supplemented by phone privileges and mail correspondence. These connections with the outside community typically serve as important sources of support and motivation during an individual’s time at the facility.