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 Coastal Bend Detention Center.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Coastal Bend Detention Center 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 Coastal Bend Detention Center.

Frequently asked questions about Coastal Bend Detention Center

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 Coastal Bend Detention Center.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Coastal Bend Detention Center?

   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 Coastal Bend Detention Center?

   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 Coastal Bend Detention Center. 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 Coastal Bend Detention Center. 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 Coastal Bend Detention Center?

   Mailing address:

   Coastal Bend Detention Center
   4909 FM2826
   Robstown, TX 78380
   Phone: (361) 767-3400

5. What are the visiting hours at Coastal Bend Detention Center?

   Visiting hours at Coastal Bend Detention Center 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 (361) 767-3400 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 Coastal Bend Detention Center?

   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 Coastal Bend Detention Center for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Coastal Bend Detention Center?

   You can send money to an inmate at Coastal Bend Detention Center 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 Coastal Bend Detention Center?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Coastal Bend Detention Center, 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 Coastal Bend Detention Center?

   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 Coastal Bend Detention Center 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 Coastal Bend Detention Center, 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

Multiple pathways for personal development and skill-building create a foundation for meaningful change at Coastal Bend Detention. The facility typically emphasizes a comprehensive approach that addresses various aspects of individual growth and preparation for successful community reintegration. This multi-faceted programming philosophy recognizes that individuals often benefit most when they can access diverse opportunities that align with their interests, abilities, and goals.

Educational and vocational opportunities form a central component of the facility’s offerings. Vocational training programs may provide hands-on experience in various trades and technical skills that are often in demand in the local job market. Furthermore, work programs typically allow individuals to develop professional skills while contributing to facility operations. These opportunities often include building maintenance roles that teach valuable construction and repair skills, along with printing services that may offer experience in document production and equipment operation.

Support services and therapeutic opportunities round out the comprehensive programming approach. Faith-based initiatives typically provide spiritual guidance and community connection for those who seek such support. Furthermore, arts and crafts programs may offer creative outlets that can reduce stress and develop new interests or talents. Physical fitness opportunities often include structured exercise programs that promote both physical and mental well-being. These varied support services work together to address different aspects of personal development and may help individuals build confidence, develop healthy coping strategies, and maintain connections to positive influences during their time at the facility.

Daily Life & Visitation

The sound of morning announcements typically marks the beginning of each day for individuals housed at Coastal Bend Detention, as structured routines provide consistency in an environment where predictability becomes essential. Today’s schedule generally follows established patterns that include designated times for meals, programming activities, and personal responsibilities. Count procedures occur regularly throughout the day, ensuring accountability while individuals navigate their daily activities within the facility’s framework.

Living accommodations at the facility typically consist of housing units designed to manage different population groups based on classification levels and security requirements. Individuals generally reside in dormitory-style settings or smaller housing pods, with personal space that may include basic furnishings and storage for approved personal items. Furthermore, the commissary system allows individuals to purchase additional food items, hygiene products, and other approved goods to supplement what the facility provides. Meals are typically served in designated dining areas according to housing unit schedules, with menu planning that aims to meet basic nutritional requirements.

Although recreational opportunities may be limited compared to community settings, the facility often includes outdoor recreation time and indoor activities that offer structure during non-programming hours. Work assignments within the facility typically provide individuals with daily responsibilities that may include food service, maintenance duties, or facility cleaning tasks. Visitation policies generally allow family members and approved visitors to maintain contact through scheduled visits, while telephone access and correspondence help individuals stay connected with their support systems outside the facility.