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 Sheriff's Department.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Butler 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 Butler County Sheriff's Department.

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

   Mailing address:

   Butler County Sheriff's Department
   200 Oak St
   Poplar Bluff, MO 63901
   Phone: (573) 785-8444

5. What are the visiting hours at Butler County Sheriff's Department?

   Visiting hours at Butler 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) 785-8444 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 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 Butler County Sheriff's Department for their specific mail policies.

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

   You can send money to an inmate at Butler 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 Butler County Sheriff's Department?

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

Butler County’s Corrections Division operates through a comprehensive objective jail classification (OJC) system that forms the foundation for individualized programming and services. This assessment-based approach evaluates each person’s custody level, behavioral history, and specific needs to determine appropriate placement in maximum, medium, or minimum security classifications. The classification process, which begins at intake and continues with monthly reviews, helps ensure that individuals receive services aligned with their risk factors, medical conditions, and rehabilitation needs.

The corrections system typically may offer educational programming to help individuals work toward GED completion or basic literacy skills during their incarceration. Vocational training opportunities often include job readiness preparation, basic computer skills, and life skills workshops that focus on employment preparation and community reintegration. Mental health and substance abuse counseling services are commonly available, as these programs address underlying issues that frequently contribute to criminal behavior. The facility may also provide religious services and chaplaincy programs to support spiritual needs during incarceration.

Medical and mental health services are integral components of the corrections program, with staff conducting ongoing assessments to address both physical and psychological needs. The classification system’s monthly review process allows for adjustments to programming based on behavioral changes, sentencing updates, or evolving medical requirements. Support services may include family visitation programs, commissary access, and legal assistance resources to help individuals maintain important connections and prepare for their eventual return to the community. The facility’s approach emphasizes maintaining safety and security while providing opportunities for personal development and rehabilitation.

Daily Life & Visitation

Butler County Jail’s objective classification system shapes every aspect of an inmate’s experience from the moment they arrive at the 705 Hanover Street facility. Upon booking, each person undergoes a comprehensive assessment that determines their placement into maximum, medium, or minimum security categories based on factors including criminal history, behavioral patterns, and medical needs. This classification directly influences which color uniform they wear and determines their housing assignment within the 848-bed Corrections Center, with reclassification reviews conducted every thirty days to ensure appropriate placement as circumstances change.

The structured environment at Butler County’s facilities typically includes scheduled meal times, recreational periods, and access to educational or work programs when available. Inmates may participate in various activities designed to maintain physical and mental well-being, though specific programming often depends on their security classification level. The facility’s armband system, which must be worn at all times, helps staff quickly identify each person’s classification status and any special alerts, contributing to the overall safety and order of daily operations.

Communication with family and friends generally follows standard correctional protocols, with visitation schedules and phone call privileges varying by housing unit and classification level. The facility often provides commissary services where inmates can purchase personal items and snacks, while mail correspondence typically follows established security screening procedures. Medical and mental health services are usually available to address ongoing healthcare needs, with the classification system helping staff identify individuals who may require specialized attention or monitoring throughout their stay.