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 Carter County Detention Center.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Carter 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 Carter County Detention Center.

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

   Mailing address:

   Carter County Detention Center
   13 Crossbar Rd
   Grayson, KY 41143
   Phone: (606) 475-1606

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Thursday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Saturday: Closed
   • Sunday: Closed

5. What are the visiting hours at Carter County Detention Center?

   Visiting hours at Carter 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 (606) 475-1606 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 Carter 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 Carter County Detention Center for their specific mail policies.

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

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

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

Support flows through comprehensive programming designed to address the diverse needs of the population at Carter County Detention Center. The facility typically emphasizes a holistic approach that recognizes each individual's potential for positive change. Programs often focus on building practical skills while addressing underlying issues that may have contributed to incarceration. This supportive framework aims to prepare participants for successful community reintegration.

Educational services form a cornerstone of the facility's offerings, with programs that may supply basic literacy instruction and GED preparation. The population often has access to educational opportunities that help them develop foundational academic skills. Additionally, vocational programs typically provide hands-on training in various trades and skills that can lead to employment opportunities upon release. These programs often include job readiness training and may offer certifications in specific fields.

Therapeutic programs address critical areas of personal development and behavioral change. Substance abuse treatment services typically provide counseling and education to help participants overcome addiction challenges. Additionally, specialized programs may include sex offender treatment for appropriate candidates. The facility often includes supportive services such as life coaching, which helps the population develop decision-making skills and personal accountability. Victim awareness programs typically encourage participants to understand the impact of their actions, while intramural sports may supply recreational outlets that promote teamwork and physical wellness.

Daily Life & Visitation

Organizational protocols shape every aspect of the population's experience, with structured schedules now governing movement between housing units, meal periods, and programming activities. The population regularly follows established routines that typically begin with early morning counts and proceed through designated time blocks for various activities. Security procedures guide transitions between different areas of the facility, while staff supervision ensures orderly movement throughout the day.

Housing arrangements generally place the population in dormitory-style units or individual cells, depending on classification levels and available space. Living areas typically include basic furnishings and may offer limited personal storage for approved items. The commissary system allows the population to purchase additional hygiene products, snacks, and writing materials when funds are available through family deposits or facility work assignments.

Additionally, structured programming schedules supply opportunities for educational classes, substance abuse counseling, and vocational training when resources permit. Recreation periods may include outdoor exercise time, television viewing, and library access according to facility guidelines. While visitation policies typically allow scheduled visits with approved family members, the population can also maintain contact through monitored phone calls and written correspondence, helping preserve important family connections during their stay.