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 Chatham County Sheriff's Office.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Chatham County Sheriff's Office

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 Chatham County Sheriff's Office.

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

   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 Chatham County Sheriff's Office?

   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 Chatham County Sheriff's Office. 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 Chatham County Sheriff's Office. 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 Chatham County Sheriff's Office?

   Mailing address:

   Chatham County Sheriff's Office
   1050 Carl Griffin Dr
   Savannah, GA 31405
   Phone: (912) 652-7600

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Saturday: Closed
   • Sunday: Closed

5. What are the visiting hours at Chatham County Sheriff's Office?

   Visiting hours at Chatham County Sheriff's Office 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 (912) 652-7600 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 Chatham County Sheriff's Office?

   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 Chatham County Sheriff's Office for their specific mail policies.

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

   You can send money to an inmate at Chatham County Sheriff's Office 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 Chatham County Sheriff's Office?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Chatham County Sheriff's Office, 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 Chatham County Sheriff's Office?

   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 Chatham County Sheriff's Office 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 Chatham County Sheriff's Office, 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

Based on the available information, the Chatham County Jail in Savannah, Georgia maintains structured communication systems that support inmates' connections with their families and legal representatives. The facility has established specific protocols for inmate correspondence, including designated mailing addresses for different types of mail such as general letters, financial deposits, legal documents, and religious materials. This organized approach to mail handling typically reflects a broader commitment to maintaining important relationships during incarceration.

While specific program details are not extensively outlined in the available materials, correctional facilities in Georgia commonly provide educational opportunities that may include adult basic education, GED preparation, and literacy programs. The facility likely offers various counseling services, which often encompass substance abuse treatment, mental health support, and life skills development. Vocational training programs may also be available to help inmates develop job-ready skills for successful reintegration into the community upon release.

The jail's structured communication policies, including provisions for religious materials and legal correspondence, suggest an environment that supports inmates' constitutional rights and spiritual needs. Like many modern correctional facilities, Chatham County Jail may offer additional services such as library access, recreational activities, and visitation programs designed to maintain family connections. These programs typically work together to support rehabilitation goals and help prepare individuals for their eventual return to the community.

Daily Life & Visitation

The Chatham County Jail operates with structured communication protocols that shape much of inmates' connection to the outside world. All correspondence from inmates must use a specific return address through JailATM.com in Atlanta, while family members sending financial support need to direct money orders and certified checks to the Sheriff's Office Finance and Accounting Services at the Carl Griffin Drive location. Inmates may receive soft cover books from commercial vendors, magazine subscriptions, legal mail, and religious materials, though all other items are considered contraband and will be destroyed upon arrival.

Communication with loved ones typically follows established schedules and procedures common to Georgia correctional facilities. Inmates often have designated times for phone calls and may participate in visitation programs, though specific scheduling would depend on the facility's current protocols and security level classifications. The jail's 24-hour contact system, including separate numbers for booking operations and shift commanders, suggests a structured environment where daily activities are closely monitored and regulated.

Living conditions at the facility likely include dormitory-style or cell-based housing arrangements typical of county jails, with inmates following daily routines that may include meals at scheduled times, recreational periods, and access to basic services. The facility's location on Carl Griffin Drive in Savannah serves both the incorporated municipalities and unincorporated areas of Chatham County, indicating it processes a diverse population with varying lengths of stay and security classifications that influence daily life experiences.