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 Brazos County Detention Center.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Brazos County Detention Center 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 Brazos County Detention Center.

Frequently asked questions about Brazos County Detention Center

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 Brazos County Detention Center.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Brazos County Detention Center?

   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 Brazos County Detention Center?

   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 Brazos County Detention Center. 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 Brazos County Detention Center. 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 Brazos County Detention Center?

   Mailing address:

   Brazos County Detention Center
   1835 Sandy Point Rd
   Bryan, TX 77807
   Phone: (979) 361-4800

   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 Brazos County Detention Center?

   Visiting hours at Brazos County Detention Center 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 (979) 361-4800 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 Brazos County Detention Center?

   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 Brazos County Detention Center for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Brazos County Detention Center?

   You can send money to an inmate at Brazos County Detention Center 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 Brazos County Detention Center?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Brazos County Detention Center, 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 Brazos County Detention Center?

   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 Brazos County Detention Center 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 Brazos County Detention Center, 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 Brazos County Detention Center maintains comprehensive support systems through specialized coordinators and dedicated service lines, reflecting a structured approach to inmate management and community reintegration. With dedicated coordinators for TDCJ transitions and serve time arrangements, the facility emphasizes systematic preparation for inmates' eventual release and successful community reentry.

Medical services operate around the clock at the detention center, ensuring continuous healthcare access for the inmate population. The facility typically may offer basic educational programs such as GED preparation and literacy classes, along with potential vocational training opportunities that could include maintenance skills, food service preparation, or other practical job training. Counseling services may include substance abuse programs, anger management classes, and mental health support, which are commonly available at Texas county facilities. The work crew program provides inmates with opportunities to develop work skills while contributing to community service projects.

Support services extend beyond basic detention operations through the commissary system and inmate trust fund management, which help maintain connections with family members and support networks. The facility may offer religious services and chaplaincy programs, along with potential life skills workshops covering topics such as financial literacy, job readiness, and family relationships. Transportation coordination and Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) services demonstrate the facility's commitment to specialized handling of various inmate needs, while the 24-hour availability of key services ensures continuous support for both inmates and their families throughout the detention process.

Daily Life & Visitation

The Brazos County Detention Center operates around-the-clock services to maintain structured daily operations for inmates housed in College Station. With 24-hour availability for medical services, bonds processing, and general inquiries through (979) 361-4800, the facility ensures continuous support for both inmates and their families. The detention center typically follows standard correctional schedules that may include early morning wake-up calls, structured meal times, and designated periods for various activities and programs throughout the day.

Inmates generally have access to commissary services, which can be reached at (979) 361-4857, allowing them to purchase approved personal items and snacks to supplement their daily routine. The facility often provides opportunities for inmates to participate in work crew programs, coordinated through the Work Crew Sergeant, which may offer structured activities and potential skill development during their stay. Medical care remains available 24/7 through dedicated staff, ensuring health needs are addressed promptly as they arise.

Family members and friends can typically maintain contact through the facility's established communication systems and may have opportunities for visitation according to the detention center's policies. The Inmate Trust Fund system, accessible at (979) 361-4808, allows loved ones to deposit money orders for inmates' use in purchasing commissary items or other approved services. For those nearing release or transfer, coordination with TDCJ (Texas Department of Criminal Justice) services helps facilitate transitions, while the Serve Time Coordinator assists with various administrative needs that may arise during an inmate's stay at the facility.