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 Chenango County Sheriff.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Chenango County Sheriff 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 Chenango County Sheriff.

Frequently asked questions about Chenango County Sheriff

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 Chenango County Sheriff.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Chenango County Sheriff?

   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 Chenango County Sheriff?

   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 Chenango County Sheriff. 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 Chenango County Sheriff. 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 Chenango County Sheriff?

   Mailing address:

   Chenango County Sheriff
   279 County Rd 46
   Norwich, NY 13815
   Phone: (607) 334-2000

   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 Chenango County Sheriff?

   Visiting hours at Chenango County Sheriff 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 (607) 334-2000 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 Chenango County Sheriff?

   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 Chenango County Sheriff for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Chenango County Sheriff?

   You can send money to an inmate at Chenango County Sheriff 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 Chenango County Sheriff?

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

   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 Chenango County Sheriff 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 Chenango County Sheriff, 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 Chenango County Correctional Facility in Norwich, NY operates as an accredited institution, having received recognition from the New York State Accreditation Board in 2007. With a maximum capacity of 133 inmates housed across five distinct housing units, the facility is designed to provide comprehensive programming space, as each unit includes its own dedicated program room alongside day rooms, laundry facilities, and exercise yards. This infrastructure supports the facility's ability to deliver various rehabilitative services directly within the housing areas.

Educational and vocational programming typically forms a cornerstone of inmate services, with facilities of this type often providing GED preparation classes, basic literacy instruction, and life skills training. The dedicated program rooms within each housing unit may accommodate substance abuse counseling, anger management courses, and cognitive behavioral programs designed to address criminal thinking patterns. Mental health services are commonly available through partnerships with local healthcare providers, offering individual counseling and group therapy sessions to support inmates' psychological well-being during incarceration.

Reentry preparation services often include job readiness training, resume writing workshops, and assistance with obtaining identification documents prior to release. The facility may also coordinate with community organizations to provide religious services, family counseling, and connections to local support networks. With Lieutenant Tracy Rotundo serving as Jail Administrator, the corrections division operates under the oversight of the Chenango County Sheriff's Office, maintaining communication with inmates' families through established visitation procedures and potentially offering video conferencing options to support family connections during incarceration.

Daily Life & Visitation

The Chenango County Jail's five housing units each provide inmates with access to their own day room, laundry facilities, program room, and exercise yard, creating a structured environment that supports daily activities and rehabilitation efforts. Located at 279 County Road 46 in Norwich, this 133-bed facility operates under the oversight of Lieutenant Tracy Rotundo, the Jail Administrator, and maintains New York State Accreditation Board standards established in 2007.

Inmates typically begin their day with scheduled meals served in common areas, followed by opportunities to participate in programming activities within their designated housing unit's program room. The facility's design allows for recreational time in individual exercise yards, where inmates may engage in physical activities and outdoor time as weather permits. Daily routines often include access to laundry services within each housing unit, educational or vocational programs, and time in the day rooms for reading, watching television, or socializing with other inmates in their unit.

Family members and friends may maintain contact through the facility's visitation program, with inquiries handled through the Lobby Desk at 607-337-1967. The Booking Desk at 607-337-1850 processes new arrivals and can provide information about recently booked individuals. As the largest division within the Chenango County Sheriff's Office, the Corrections Division works to balance security requirements with opportunities for inmates to maintain family connections and participate in programs that may support their eventual reintegration into the community.