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 Colwell Probation Detention.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Colwell Probation Detention 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 Colwell Probation Detention.

Frequently asked questions about Colwell Probation Detention

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 Colwell Probation Detention.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Colwell Probation Detention?

   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 Colwell Probation Detention?

   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 Colwell Probation Detention. 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 Colwell Probation Detention. 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 Colwell Probation Detention?

   Mailing address:

   Colwell Probation Detention
   189 Beasley St
   Blairsville, GA 30512
   Phone: (706) 745-3610

   Business hours:

   • Monday: Open 24 hours
   • Tuesday: Open 24 hours
   • Wednesday: Open 24 hours
   • Thursday: Open 24 hours
   • Friday: Open 24 hours
   • Saturday: Closed
   • Sunday: Open 24 hours

5. What are the visiting hours at Colwell Probation Detention?

   Visiting hours at Colwell Probation Detention 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 (706) 745-3610 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 Colwell Probation Detention?

   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 Colwell Probation Detention for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Colwell Probation Detention?

   You can send money to an inmate at Colwell Probation Detention 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 Colwell Probation Detention?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Colwell Probation Detention, 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 Colwell Probation Detention?

   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 Colwell Probation Detention 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 Colwell Probation Detention, 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 begins with access to meaningful opportunities that build skills and foster positive change. At Colwell Probation Detention Center, those incarcerated can participate in various offerings designed to support their development during their time in the facility. The center typically emphasizes creating a structured environment where individuals may engage in activities that promote learning, self-reflection, and preparation for successful reintegration into their communities.

Educational advancement forms a cornerstone of the facility's approach to rehabilitation. Those incarcerated often have access to education programs that may include adult basic education courses to help individuals complete their high school equivalency. Additionally, vocational training opportunities are typically available, allowing participants to develop practical job skills in various trades and industries. These offerings may furnish hands-on experience that can translate into employment opportunities upon release.

The center also recognizes the importance of addressing personal and spiritual needs through comprehensive support services. Individual counseling sessions are often provided to help those incarcerated work through personal challenges and develop coping strategies. Additionally, faith-based services may be available for those seeking spiritual guidance and community connection. The facility typically includes arts and crafts activities as well, which can serve as both therapeutic outlets and opportunities for creative expression while maintaining the structured, secure environment necessary for facility operations.

Daily Life & Visitation

Family connections and peer relationships form the foundation of the social environment for those incarcerated at Colwell Probation Detention Center. The facility currently maintains structured daily routines that begin with early morning counts and continue through evening lockdown procedures. Those incarcerated typically participate in scheduled meals, work assignments, and programming activities that furnish opportunities for positive social interaction throughout the day.

Living accommodations generally consist of shared housing units where residents may develop supportive relationships with their peers. Additionally, the dormitory-style arrangements often encourage communication and mutual assistance among those serving their sentences. Meals are typically served in common dining areas, providing regular opportunities for social interaction and community building. While maintaining security protocols, the facility usually allows residents to gather during designated recreation periods and structured activities.

Programming schedules generally include educational opportunities, substance abuse counseling, and work assignments that help maintain connections to productive routines. Those incarcerated may participate in facility maintenance, kitchen duties, or other job assignments that provide structure and skill development. Visitation policies typically allow family members and approved visitors to maintain regular contact, while telephone access and correspondence help preserve important outside relationships. The facility usually operates a commissary system where residents can purchase personal items and snacks, often sharing resources and supporting one another within the community environment.