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 Broome County Sheriff's Office.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Broome County Sheriff's Office

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 Broome County Sheriff's Office.

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

   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 Broome County Sheriff's Office?

   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 Broome County Sheriff's Office. 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 Broome County Sheriff's Office. 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 Broome County Sheriff's Office?

   Mailing address:

   Broome County Sheriff's Office
   155 Lt Vanwinkle Dr
   Binghamton, NY 13905
   Phone: (607) 778-1911

   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 Broome County Sheriff's Office?

   Visiting hours at Broome County Sheriff's Office 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 (607) 778-1911 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 Broome County Sheriff's Office?

   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 Broome County Sheriff's Office for their specific mail policies.

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

   You can send money to an inmate at Broome County Sheriff's Office 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 Broome County Sheriff's Office?

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

   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 Broome County Sheriff's Office 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 Broome County Sheriff's Office, 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 Broome County Sheriff's Office operates a comprehensive corrections division that maintains custody of individuals remanded by the courts, serving the diverse population of south-central New York. While the facility's primary responsibility involves secure housing and supervision, the corrections division typically works to provide various rehabilitative services designed to support successful reentry into the community.

Educational and vocational programs may include basic literacy instruction, GED preparation, and job readiness training that helps prepare inmates for employment opportunities upon release. The facility often provides access to substance abuse counseling and mental health services, recognizing that addressing underlying issues is crucial for reducing recidivism. Medical care is typically available through on-site healthcare staff, ensuring inmates receive necessary treatment during their incarceration. Additionally, the corrections division may offer religious services and library access to support personal development and maintain connections to community resources.

Support services at the facility often include visitation programs that help inmates maintain family relationships, commissary services, and phone access for approved communications. The corrections staff may also coordinate with local organizations to provide reentry planning assistance, helping individuals prepare for housing, employment, and community support upon release. These programs typically reflect the facility's commitment to public safety while supporting rehabilitation efforts that benefit both inmates and the broader Broome County community.

Daily Life & Visitation

The Corrections Division of the Broome County Sheriff's Office maintains custody of individuals remanded by the courts, operating within a comprehensive law enforcement structure that has served the community since 1806. Inmates typically begin their day with early morning counts and meal service, followed by structured activities that may include work assignments, educational programming, or recreational periods. The facility generally operates on a regimented schedule designed to maintain order and security while providing opportunities for rehabilitation and personal development.

Visitation and communication with family members are often regulated through specific policies that balance security concerns with maintaining important family connections. The facility may offer scheduled visitation periods, telephone privileges, and mail services, though these are typically subject to security screening procedures. Inmates may have access to commissary services where they can purchase approved personal items and snacks, usually funded through accounts maintained by family members or through earnings from facility work programs.

Daily routines at the Broome County facility likely include regular meal times, recreational periods, and potentially educational or vocational programming depending on the individual's classification and length of stay. Medical services are typically available for routine healthcare needs, and the facility generally maintains safety protocols consistent with New York State correctional standards. The structured environment aims to provide stability while individuals await court proceedings or serve their sentences, with staff trained through the Sheriff's Office Training Division to ensure professional operations throughout the facility.