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 Chillicothe Correctional Institution.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Chillicothe Correctional Institution 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 Chillicothe Correctional Institution.

Frequently asked questions about Chillicothe Correctional Institution

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 Chillicothe Correctional Institution.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Chillicothe Correctional Institution?

   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 Chillicothe Correctional Institution?

   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 Chillicothe Correctional Institution. 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 Chillicothe Correctional Institution. 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 Chillicothe Correctional Institution?

   Mailing address:

   Chillicothe Correctional Institution
   15802 OH-104
   Chillicothe, OH 45601
   Phone: (740) 774-7080

   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 Chillicothe Correctional Institution?

   Visiting hours at Chillicothe Correctional Institution 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 (740) 774-7080 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 Chillicothe Correctional Institution?

   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 Chillicothe Correctional Institution for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Chillicothe Correctional Institution?

   You can send money to an inmate at Chillicothe Correctional Institution 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 Chillicothe Correctional Institution?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Chillicothe Correctional Institution, 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 Chillicothe Correctional Institution?

   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 Chillicothe Correctional Institution 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 Chillicothe Correctional Institution, 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

Through a comprehensive network of rehabilitative programs, Chillicothe Correctional Institution provides essential support services designed to address the diverse needs of the population. The facility’s approach centers on building practical skills and personal stability that can serve individuals both during incarceration and upon reintegration into their communities. These programs typically emphasize personal growth, skill development, and preparing participants for successful transitions back to society.

Educational initiatives form a cornerstone of the institution’s offerings, with programs that may include basic literacy instruction, GED preparation, and civic education components. The population can typically access various levels of academic instruction tailored to individual learning needs and goals. Also available are job training opportunities that often focus on developing marketable skills in trades and industries common to Ohio’s employment landscape. These vocational programs may supply hands-on experience in areas such as construction, manufacturing, or service industries, helping participants build practical expertise for future employment.

Recovery services represent another vital component of the facility’s support structure, addressing substance abuse issues that may have contributed to criminal behavior. The population can often participate in counseling sessions, group therapy, and educational workshops focused on addiction recovery and relapse prevention. Also provided are library services that typically offer access to educational materials, legal resources, and recreational reading options. These support programs work together to create an environment where individuals can develop the tools and mindset necessary for successful community reintegration while maintaining connections with family and support networks.

Daily Life & Visitation

Structured scheduling and clear protocols shape every aspect of the experience for the population at Chillicothe Correctional Institution. At present, residents actively participate in a regimented daily routine that typically begins with early morning counts and meal service. The facility operates on predetermined schedules that supply consistency throughout each day, with designated times for meals, work assignments, educational programming, and recreation. However, these routines may vary based on security level and individual housing assignments.

Living accommodations generally consist of multi-person cells or dormitory-style housing units, depending on classification levels and available space. The population typically shares common areas within their housing units, including dayrooms and recreational spaces. Meals are usually served in designated dining areas at scheduled times, with the facility providing three meals daily that meet nutritional standards. Also, residents may access commissary services to purchase approved personal items and food products, subject to spending limits and security guidelines.

Work assignments actively engage much of the population in facility operations, including maintenance, food service, and various institutional support roles. Recreation opportunities typically include access to outdoor yards, gymnasium facilities, and organized activities during designated periods. However, participation often depends on security classification and disciplinary status. The facility generally allows visitation according to established schedules, and residents may maintain contact with family through approved telephone services and written correspondence. Educational and vocational programming supply additional structure to daily life, offering opportunities for skill development and preparation for eventual reintegration.