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 Butler County Adult Detention.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Butler County Adult Detention 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 Butler County Adult Detention.

Frequently asked questions about Butler County Adult Detention

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 Butler County Adult Detention.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Butler County Adult Detention?

   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 Butler County Adult Detention?

   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 Butler County Adult Detention. 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 Butler County Adult Detention. 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 Butler County Adult Detention?

   Mailing address:

   Butler County Adult Detention
   701 Stone Rd
   El Dorado, KS 67042
   Phone: (316) 322-4160

   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 Butler County Adult Detention?

   Visiting hours at Butler County Adult Detention 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 (316) 322-4160 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 Butler County Adult Detention?

   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 Butler County Adult Detention for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Butler County Adult Detention?

   You can send money to an inmate at Butler County Adult Detention 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 Butler County Adult Detention?

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

   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 Butler County Adult Detention 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 Butler County Adult Detention, 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 multifaceted approach to rehabilitation at Butler County Jail reflects a deep understanding that meaningful change requires addressing the diverse needs and circumstances of each individual. Rather than adopting a one-size-fits-all methodology, the facility typically emphasizes a comprehensive framework that recognizes education, skill development, and personal growth as interconnected pathways to successful reintegration. This holistic philosophy often manifests through carefully structured opportunities that allow individuals to engage with programming that aligns with their personal goals, interests, and post-release aspirations.

Educational advancement and vocational skill development form the cornerstone of the facility's comprehensive offerings, providing individuals with tangible tools for future success. The education programs may encompass basic literacy instruction, GED preparation, and continuing education opportunities that help participants strengthen their academic foundation. Moreover, vocational training initiatives often include hands-on instruction in practical trades and technical skills, enabling individuals to develop marketable competencies that can translate directly into employment opportunities upon release. These structured learning environments typically foster both intellectual growth and practical skill acquisition, creating a dual pathway toward personal and professional development.

Therapeutic interventions and community-focused opportunities round out the facility's comprehensive approach to individual development and healing. Substance abuse treatment programs often provide crucial support for those addressing addiction challenges, incorporating evidence-based methodologies that address both the psychological and behavioral aspects of recovery. Moreover, innovative support opportunities such as animal care programs may offer therapeutic benefits while teaching responsibility and compassion, while recycling programs and community service initiatives often help individuals develop a sense of civic engagement and environmental stewardship. These diverse therapeutic and service-oriented opportunities typically work in conjunction with other programming to create a well-rounded experience that addresses multiple dimensions of personal growth and community connection.

Daily Life & Visitation

The rhythmic sound of meal trays being distributed typically marks the beginning of each structured day for individuals housed within the Butler County Jail facility. At present, the daily routine actively revolves around scheduled meal times, security counts, and designated periods for various activities, creating a predictable framework that helps maintain order and stability. Generally, individuals wake early for breakfast service, followed by housing unit cleaning responsibilities and preparation for any scheduled court appearances, medical appointments, or programming activities that may be assigned for that particular day.

Moreover, living accommodations within the facility typically consist of shared housing units where individuals may be assigned to cells or dormitory-style arrangements based on classification levels and available space. The environment generally includes basic furnishings such as bunks, storage areas for approved personal property, and shared common areas where individuals can interact during designated recreation periods. Whereas some housing units may offer television viewing during specific hours, all areas maintain security protocols that include regular supervision and scheduled counts throughout both day and evening hours.

The facility typically offers structured programming that may include educational opportunities, substance abuse counseling, and work assignments such as kitchen duties, laundry services, or general facility maintenance tasks. Recreation periods usually provide opportunities for physical exercise, reading materials from the facility library, and social interaction within designated areas. Communication with family members and loved ones generally occurs through scheduled visitation sessions, telephone privileges during specified hours, and correspondence through the mail system, all of which help individuals maintain important connections to their support networks while navigating the challenges of incarceration.