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 Cattaraugus County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Cattaraugus County Jail 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 Cattaraugus County Jail.

Frequently asked questions about Cattaraugus County Jail

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 Cattaraugus County Jail.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Cattaraugus County Jail?

   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 Cattaraugus County Jail?

   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 Cattaraugus County Jail. 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 Cattaraugus County Jail. 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 Cattaraugus County Jail?

   Mailing address:

   Cattaraugus County Jail
   301 Court St
   Little Valley, NY 14755
   Phone: (716) 938-9194

   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 Cattaraugus County Jail?

   Visiting hours at Cattaraugus County Jail 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) 938-9194 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 Cattaraugus County Jail?

   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 Cattaraugus County Jail for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Cattaraugus County Jail?

   You can send money to an inmate at Cattaraugus County Jail 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 Cattaraugus County Jail?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Cattaraugus County Jail, 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 Cattaraugus County Jail?

   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 Cattaraugus County Jail 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 Cattaraugus County Jail, 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 Cattaraugus County Jail maintains a comprehensive approach to inmate management within its 148-bed maximum security facility, housing both sentenced and unsentenced male and female prisoners. The facility operates under strict compliance with New York State Commission of Correction standards, with extraordinary measures taken to maintain a safe, secure, and clean environment. Inmates and their families benefit from accessible communication and financial services, including tablet and phone account funding options, a 24/7 public kiosk money terminal in the visitation lobby, and online bail posting through GovPayNet. The jail facilitates in-person visitation on Tuesdays and Fridays, providing crucial family connection opportunities for those housed at the facility.

Given the facility's commitment to compliance and professional operations, inmates may have access to various rehabilitative and support services typical of New York correctional facilities. These could include educational programs such as GED preparation and basic literacy courses, as well as vocational training opportunities that help prepare individuals for reintegration into the community. The facility may also offer substance abuse counseling, mental health services, and religious programming to address the diverse needs of its population. Additionally, inmates might participate in work programs within the facility, which can provide valuable job skills and help maintain the operations of the jail while offering structure and purpose during incarceration.

Daily Life & Visitation

In-person visits at Cattaraugus County Jail occur on Tuesdays and Fridays, providing inmates with regular opportunities to maintain connections with family and friends. The 148-bed maximum security facility houses both sentenced and unsentenced male and female inmates, with accommodations ranging from traditional linear bar sections to more modern dormitory-style direct supervision pods. This varied housing structure typically means that an inmate's daily experience may differ depending on their classification level and housing assignment.

The facility maintains strict security protocols while working to provide essential services to its diverse population, which includes individuals facing charges from minor violations to serious FBI index crimes. Inmates generally follow structured daily schedules that may include meals, recreation time, and access to programs, though specific routines often vary based on housing unit and individual circumstances. The jail's commitment to maintaining compliance with New York State Commission of Correction standards suggests that daily operations likely include regular health checks, educational opportunities, and work assignments where appropriate.

Family members can support inmates through various means, including the 24/7 kiosk money terminal located in the public visitation lobby, which allows deposits to inmate accounts using cash or credit cards. Online bail posting is available through GovPayNet for those eligible, and funds can be added to tablet and phone accounts to help inmates stay connected with the outside world. These communication and financial support systems play an important role in helping inmates maintain stability during their incarceration while preparing for their eventual return to the community.