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 Boone County Sheriff’s Department.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Boone 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 Boone County Sheriff’s Department.

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

   Mailing address:

   Boone County Sheriff’s Department
   2121 County Dr
   Columbia, MO 65202
   Phone: (573) 875-1111

   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 Boone County Sheriff’s Department?

   Visiting hours at Boone 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 (573) 875-1111 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 Boone 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 Boone County Sheriff’s Department for their specific mail policies.

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

   You can send money to an inmate at Boone 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 Boone County Sheriff’s Department?

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

Through comprehensive support services, Boone County Jail recognizes that meaningful change occurs when individuals have access to resources that address their diverse needs. The facility’s approach centers on providing programs that build essential life skills while fostering personal growth and accountability. This supportive framework typically emphasizes community connections and family relationships, understanding that successful reintegration depends on addressing both immediate challenges and long-term goals.

Educational and vocational programs form a cornerstone of the facility’s offerings, providing the population with opportunities to develop marketable skills and complete academic requirements. Education programs may supply basic literacy instruction, GED preparation, and continuing education opportunities that help participants advance their learning. Vocational training often includes practical skill development in various trades, giving individuals hands-on experience that can translate directly to employment opportunities upon release. These programs typically focus on building confidence while providing tangible qualifications that support future stability.

In addition to these foundational services, specialized support programs address specific needs within the population. Sex offender treatment programs may offer therapeutic interventions designed to promote accountability and reduce recidivism through evidence-based approaches. Faith-based programs often provide spiritual guidance and community support, while job placement assistance helps connect participants with potential employers. The facility may also supply training in barbering and cosmetology, offering creative outlets that can develop into professional opportunities. These diverse programs work together to create a comprehensive support network that addresses the varied challenges individuals face during incarceration and beyond.

Daily Life & Visitation

Organizational systems at Boone County Jail shape every aspect of the population’s daily experience through carefully structured routines and clear protocols. Today’s schedule typically begins with early morning counts and continues consistently through designated meal times, programming periods, and evening activities. The facility generally operates on a predictable framework that helps maintain order while providing opportunities for personal development and family connection.

Housing units are usually organized by classification levels, with the population assigned to appropriate areas based on various factors including security needs and program participation. Living accommodations typically include shared cells or dormitory-style arrangements, with personal property allowances that may include basic hygiene items and approved personal effects. In addition to this structured living environment, meals are generally served at designated times in common dining areas or distributed to housing units, depending on the facility’s current operational procedures and security requirements.

Despite this controlled environment, the population typically has access to various programs and activities that supply meaningful structure to their days. Recreation opportunities often include indoor exercise periods, television viewing in common areas, and access to reading materials through the facility’s library services. Work assignments within the facility may involve kitchen duties, maintenance tasks, or cleaning responsibilities that provide both purpose and potential skill development. Family connections are generally maintained through scheduled visitation periods and telephone privileges, while commissary services typically allow the population to purchase approved items to supplement their basic needs. Programming schedules usually include educational opportunities, substance abuse counseling, and other rehabilitative services designed to support successful community reintegration.