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 Cherokee County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Cherokee 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 Cherokee County Jail.

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

   Mailing address:

   Cherokee County Jail
   915 E Country Rd
   Columbus, KS 66725
   Phone: (620) 429-3992

   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 Cherokee County Jail?

   Visiting hours at Cherokee 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 (620) 429-3992 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 Cherokee 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 Cherokee County Jail for their specific mail policies.

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

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

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Cherokee 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 Cherokee 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 Cherokee 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 Cherokee 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 breadth of developmental opportunities within Cherokee County Jail reflects a comprehensive approach to individual growth and rehabilitation. Rather than viewing incarceration merely as punishment, the facility typically embraces a philosophy that recognizes each person's potential for positive transformation. This multifaceted framework may encompass educational advancement, vocational skill development, therapeutic intervention, and specialized support services, creating an environment where individuals can address underlying issues while building foundations for successful community reintegration.

Educational and vocational opportunities often form the cornerstone of the facility's programming structure. Academic instruction may include basic literacy development, GED preparation, and continuing education courses designed to enhance cognitive skills and broaden intellectual horizons. Moreover, vocational training opportunities typically provide hands-on experience in various trades and technical fields, equipping individuals with marketable skills that can translate into meaningful employment upon release. These educational initiatives often emphasize both theoretical knowledge and practical application, fostering a comprehensive learning environment.

Therapeutic and specialized support services complement the educational framework through targeted interventions addressing specific behavioral and psychological needs. Substance abuse treatment opportunities may incorporate evidence-based methodologies to help individuals overcome addiction and develop healthy coping mechanisms. Moreover, specialized therapeutic programming, such as sex offender treatment, typically provides intensive counseling and behavioral modification strategies. Additionally, unique support services like upholstery training may offer creative outlets while developing practical skills, demonstrating the facility's commitment to diverse pathways for personal development and rehabilitation.

Daily Life & Visitation

The rhythmic sound of meal trays being distributed typically marks the beginning of each structured day for individuals housed at Cherokee County Jail, as institutional routines now govern the pace of daily activities. The facility generally operates on a schedule that includes regular meal times, designated periods for recreation, and structured programming opportunities that offer stability and purpose. Individuals usually participate in various work assignments throughout the facility, which may include kitchen duties, maintenance tasks, or cleaning responsibilities that help maintain the institution while providing valuable work experience.

Living accommodations typically consist of shared housing units where individuals are assigned based on various classification factors, with each person generally provided basic necessities including bedding, personal hygiene items, and limited storage space for approved personal property. The facility usually maintains a commissary system that allows individuals to purchase additional items such as snacks, toiletries, and writing materials, provided they have funds available in their accounts. Moreover, daily routines often include scheduled times for showers, mail distribution, and access to common areas where individuals may watch television, read, or engage in quiet recreational activities.

Whereas the structured environment maintains necessary security protocols, the facility typically offers various programs designed to support personal development and maintain connections with family members. Visitation policies generally allow for scheduled visits with approved family and friends, while telephone access is usually provided at designated times throughout the day to help individuals maintain important relationships. Programming may include educational opportunities, substance abuse counseling, or religious services that offer individuals constructive ways to spend their time and work toward personal goals during their stay at the facility.