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 Buffalo Police Holding Center.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Buffalo Police Holding 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 Buffalo Police Holding Center.

Frequently asked questions about Buffalo Police Holding 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 Buffalo Police Holding Center.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Buffalo Police Holding 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 Buffalo Police Holding 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 Buffalo Police Holding 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 Buffalo Police Holding 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 Buffalo Police Holding Center?

   Mailing address:

   Buffalo Police Holding Center
   121 W Eagle St
   Buffalo, NY 14202
   Phone: (716) 858-7638

5. What are the visiting hours at Buffalo Police Holding Center?

   Visiting hours at Buffalo Police Holding 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 (716) 858-7638 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 Buffalo Police Holding 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 Buffalo Police Holding Center for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Buffalo Police Holding Center?

   You can send money to an inmate at Buffalo Police Holding 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 Buffalo Police Holding Center?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Buffalo Police Holding 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 Buffalo Police Holding 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 Buffalo Police Holding 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 Buffalo Police Holding 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 Erie County Holding Center operates under the Jail Management Division of the Erie County Sheriff's Office, providing essential health services through its dedicated Correctional Health Unit. This specialized unit ensures that incarcerated individuals receive timely and appropriate medical and dental care during their stay at the facility. The health services approach reflects the facility's commitment to maintaining the wellbeing of those in custody while they navigate the legal process.

Beyond the confirmed medical and dental services, the Erie County Holding Center may offer various support programs typical of New York correctional facilities. These could include educational opportunities such as GED preparation classes, basic literacy programs, and life skills workshops designed to help individuals prepare for reintegration. The facility might also provide substance abuse counseling and mental health services, recognizing that many individuals in the correctional system benefit from addressing underlying issues that may have contributed to their circumstances.

The facility maintains structured visitation schedules with both in-person and video visitation options, supporting family connections that are often crucial for successful outcomes. Additional programming may include vocational training opportunities, religious services, and reentry planning assistance to help individuals transition back to their communities. These services typically work together to provide a comprehensive approach to supporting those in custody, though specific program availability may vary based on facility capacity and individual needs.

Daily Life & Visitation

Visitation opportunities at Erie County Holding Center operate on a structured schedule, with sign-up periods beginning as early as 7:30 a.m. on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, followed by visiting sessions that extend into the evening hours until 9:30 p.m. The facility maintains both in-person and video visitation options, allowing families to maintain connections through multiple channels. These visiting windows provide crucial touchpoints for individuals housed at the Buffalo facility, helping maintain family bonds during their stay.

The daily routine at the facility typically revolves around structured meal times, medical care through the Erie County Sheriff's Office Correctional Health Unit, and various programming activities. Individuals may participate in educational programs, recreational activities, and work assignments depending on their classification and length of stay. The Correctional Health Unit ensures that medical and dental services are readily available, providing timely healthcare interventions when needed. Housing arrangements often vary based on security classification, with dormitory-style or individual cell accommodations being common configurations.

Throughout the week, the rhythm of institutional life includes regular counts, meal service, and designated times for phone calls, library access, and outdoor recreation when weather permits. The facility operates under New York State correctional standards, which typically include provisions for religious services, legal visits, and access to reading materials. Staff members maintain security protocols while facilitating daily operations, ensuring that individuals can access necessary services while serving their time or awaiting court proceedings.