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 Cocke County Jail Annex.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Cocke County Jail Annex

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 Cocke County Jail Annex.

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

   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 Cocke County Jail Annex?

   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 Cocke County Jail Annex. 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 Cocke County Jail Annex. 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 Cocke County Jail Annex?

   Mailing address:

   Cocke County Jail Annex
   358 E Main St
   Newport, TN 37821
   Phone: (423) 623-9043

   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 Cocke County Jail Annex?

   Visiting hours at Cocke County Jail Annex 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 (423) 623-9043 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 Cocke County Jail Annex?

   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 Cocke County Jail Annex for their specific mail policies.

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

   You can send money to an inmate at Cocke County Jail Annex 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 Cocke County Jail Annex?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Cocke County Jail Annex, 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 Cocke County Jail Annex?

   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 Cocke County Jail Annex 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 Cocke County Jail Annex, 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 Cocke County Jail in Tennessee emphasizes rehabilitation through a comprehensive array of programs designed to support inmates during their incarceration. The facility operates several key rehabilitation initiatives, including faith-based education sessions held on Tuesdays, the JCAP rehabilitation program, and the RU program. Mental health and substance abuse support services are provided through partnerships with established organizations such as Helen Ross McNabb, West Care Tennessee, and Cherokee Mental Health, while Rural Medical Services addresses inmates’ healthcare needs. These programs work together to address various aspects of rehabilitation, from spiritual guidance to mental health treatment and substance abuse recovery.

The jail’s trustee program provides valuable work experience and skills development opportunities for approximately many individuals, though staff typically work to accommodate as many participants as possible. Trustee positions include kitchen staff, litter control, laundry operations, maintenance work, custodial cleaning, cell trustees, and non-profit work assignments. These positions may help inmates develop work habits and job skills while contributing to facility operations. The jail may also offer additional educational programming, life skills training, and pre-release preparation services commonly found in Tennessee correctional facilities, though specific details about these potential programs would need to be confirmed directly with the facility.

Beyond the core rehabilitation and work programs, the facility likely provides standard correctional services including medical care coordination, legal assistance access, and family visitation opportunities. Inmates can maintain contact with family members through commissary services managed through Access Corrections and phone services through InmateSales, which may help preserve important family connections during incarceration. The jail’s approach appears to balance security needs with rehabilitation goals, creating an environment that may support positive behavioral changes and preparation for community reintegration.

Daily Life & Visitation

With an average population of many individuals, Cocke County Jail operates with a structured environment where approximately 25 trustee positions help maintain facility operations. These trusted inmates work in various capacities including kitchen staff, laundry services, maintenance, custodial cleaning, and even community service through non-profit work and litter control programs. The facility’s 24 full-time correction officers maintain security and supervision around the clock, ensuring a safe environment for both inmates and staff.

Inmates typically follow a structured daily schedule that may include meals, recreation time, and participation in the facility’s rehabilitation programs. The jail offers several support services including faith-based education sessions on Tuesdays, along with programs through JCAP rehabilitation, RU program, Helen Ross McNabb, West Care Tennessee, Rural Medical Services, and Cherokee Mental Health. These programs often provide inmates with opportunities for personal development, substance abuse treatment, and mental health support during their incarceration.

For families wanting to stay connected, inmates can receive funds for commissary purchases through AccessCorrections.com, while phone account deposits can be made via InmateSales.com. New inmates are limited to bringing dedicated essential clothing items - specifically 5 white t-shirts, 5 pairs of white socks, and 5 pairs of white underwear, all of which must be new and in original packaging. All other personal items must be purchased through the facility’s commissary system, helping maintain security protocols while ensuring inmates have access to necessary supplies and comfort items during their stay.