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 Chattooga County Sheriff's Office.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Chattooga 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 Chattooga County Sheriff's Office.

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

   Mailing address:

   Chattooga County Sheriff's Office
   35 W Washington St
   Summerville, GA 30747
   Phone: (706) 857-3411

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

   Visiting hours at Chattooga 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 (706) 857-3411 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 Chattooga 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 Chattooga County Sheriff's Office for their specific mail policies.

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

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

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

Personal growth opportunities within Chattooga County Jail focus on building skills and strengthening character during incarceration. The facility's approach emphasizes structure and accountability while providing pathways for positive change. Those incarcerated can access various offerings designed to support their development and prepare them for successful reentry into the community.

Educational and vocational offerings form the foundation of skill-building opportunities at the facility. Education programs typically include basic literacy instruction and GED preparation to help participants achieve fundamental academic milestones. Distance learning options may furnish additional educational pathways for those seeking to advance their knowledge. Additionally, vocational training programs often focus on practical skills that can lead to employment opportunities upon release, providing hands-on experience in various trades and technical fields.

Support services complement the educational and vocational components through comprehensive assistance programs. Faith-based services offer spiritual guidance and community connection for those seeking religious support during their incarceration. Job placement assistance programs typically help participants develop employment readiness skills and connect with potential employers. The facility may also provide opportunities for those incarcerated to contribute through facility maintenance and laundry services, which can build work experience and responsibility while supporting daily operations.

Daily Life & Visitation

Maintaining connections with family and community members forms a cornerstone of the experience for those incarcerated at Chattooga County Jail. Today's structured environment consistently provides opportunities for social interaction through shared common areas, group dining periods, and recreational activities that help residents maintain important interpersonal skills. The facility typically operates on a predictable schedule that allows those incarcerated to plan their days around meals, programming, and communication times with loved ones.

Housing arrangements generally place residents in dormitory-style units or smaller cells, depending on classification levels and available space. Those incarcerated typically share living areas that include basic furnishings and storage for approved personal belongings. Meals are usually served in designated dining areas where residents can interact with others, creating natural opportunities for conversation and relationship-building. Additionally, the commissary system allows family members to contribute funds that help residents purchase additional food items, hygiene products, and writing materials to stay connected with the outside world.

Structured programming schedules may include work assignments within the facility, such as kitchen duties, cleaning responsibilities, or maintenance tasks that provide both routine and the chance to develop job skills. While security protocols govern daily movements, visitation policies typically allow family members to maintain regular contact through scheduled visits and phone calls. Recreation periods often furnish opportunities for exercise and group activities that help those incarcerated stay physically active and socially engaged. These programs generally aim to support residents in maintaining family relationships and preparing for successful reintegration into their communities upon release.