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 Sheriff's Office.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

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

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

   Mailing address:

   Cherokee County Sheriff's Office
   272 Underwood St
   Rusk, TX 75785
   Phone: (903) 683-2271

   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 Cherokee County Sheriff's Office?

   Visiting hours at Cherokee 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 (903) 683-2271 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 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 Cherokee County Sheriff's Office for their specific mail policies.

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

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

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Cherokee 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 Cherokee 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 Cherokee 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 Cherokee 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 and skill development form the foundation of rehabilitation services at Cherokee County Jail in Texas. The facility typically emphasizes practical learning opportunities that help inmates build confidence and prepare for successful reintegration into their communities. These services often focus on addressing underlying issues while developing marketable skills that can lead to stable employment after release.

Educational and vocational services may provide inmates with hands-on training in various trades and technical skills. Vocational training programs often include instruction in practical fields that have strong job markets in the local area. These services typically combine classroom learning with practical application, allowing participants to develop both technical knowledge and work experience. Additionally, masonry training may offer inmates the opportunity to learn construction skills that are in demand throughout Texas.

Support services often include work programs that help inmates develop positive work habits and responsibility while contributing to facility operations. Faith-based initiatives may provide spiritual guidance and community support for those seeking personal transformation through religious practice. Additionally, therapeutic services such as sex offender treatment typically address specific behavioral issues through structured counseling and intervention programs. These comprehensive services work together to support inmates' personal development and help them build the foundation for a more productive future.

Daily Life & Visitation

The housing units at Cherokee County Jail feature dormitory-style accommodations and individual cells that form the foundation of inmates' daily experience. At present, the facility actively maintains structured schedules that begin with early morning counts and continue through evening lockdown procedures. Inmates typically follow routines that include designated meal times, recreation periods, and work assignments that provide stability within the correctional environment.

Living conditions generally include shared sleeping areas or individual cells equipped with basic furnishings such as bunks, storage areas, and necessary hygiene facilities. Additionally, inmates adapt to communal dining arrangements where meals are served at scheduled intervals throughout the day. The facility usually provides recreation opportunities that may include outdoor exercise time, television viewing in common areas, and access to reading materials. While personal property is typically limited to approved items, inmates can often purchase additional necessities and snacks through the commissary system.

Structured programming schedules often include work assignments within the facility, such as kitchen duties, cleaning responsibilities, or maintenance tasks that help inmates remain productive during their stay. Communication with family members typically occurs through scheduled visitation periods and monitored phone calls, which provide important connections to support systems outside the facility. Additionally, some inmates may have access to educational programming or counseling services that help prepare them for eventual reintegration into the community.