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 Cullman County Detention Center.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Cullman County 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 Cullman County Detention Center.

Frequently asked questions about Cullman County 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 Cullman County Detention Center.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Cullman County 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 Cullman County 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 Cullman County 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 Cullman County 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 Cullman County Detention Center?

   Mailing address:

   Cullman County Detention Center
   1900 Beech Ave SE
   Cullman, AL 35055
   Phone: (256) 775-4713

   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 Cullman County Detention Center?

   Visiting hours at Cullman County 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 (256) 775-4713 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 Cullman County 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 Cullman County Detention Center for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Cullman County Detention Center?

   You can send money to an inmate at Cullman County 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 Cullman County Detention Center?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Cullman County 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 Cullman County 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 Cullman County 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 Cullman County 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

The Cullman County Detention Center maintains comprehensive communication and support systems designed to help inmates stay connected with their families and communities during incarceration. Through partnerships with specialized service providers, the facility offers multiple ways for inmates to maintain contact, including prepaid phone services, visitation programs, and messaging systems. These communication services are supported by convenient payment options, with family members able to add funds to inmate accounts through online platforms, lobby kiosks, or toll-free phone services, ensuring that maintaining family connections remains accessible and straightforward.

Beyond communication services, the detention center typically may offer educational and vocational programs aimed at supporting inmate rehabilitation and successful reentry into the community. These programs often include basic literacy classes, GED preparation, and life skills training that help inmates develop practical knowledge for their eventual release. The facility may also provide substance abuse counseling, anger management courses, and mental health support services, recognizing that addressing underlying issues is crucial for reducing recidivism and promoting positive outcomes.

The commissary system at Cullman County Detention Center allows inmates to purchase personal items and supplemental food products, which can contribute to their overall well-being during incarceration. This service, combined with the facility’s communication programs, helps maintain morale and connection to the outside world. The detention center may also coordinate with local organizations to provide religious services, library access, and recreational activities, creating a more comprehensive approach to inmate care that extends beyond basic housing and security needs.

Daily Life & Visitation

Inmates at the Cullman County Detention Center maintain contact with their families through a structured communication system that includes phone calls, visitation, and messaging services. When family members receive their established call from an inmate, they get a complimentary 60-second conversation before being connected with customer service representatives who can help establish prepaid phone accounts. The facility operates modern communication technology through lobby kiosks and online platforms, allowing loved ones to add funds to inmate accounts and purchase phone services at www.inmatesales.com or by calling toll-free numbers.

The detention center, located at 1900 Beech Ave SE in Cullman, typically follows standard correctional facility routines that may include scheduled meal times, recreation periods, and educational or work programs. Inmates often have access to commissary services where they can purchase personal items using funds deposited by family members through the lobby kiosk, which accepts exact cash denominations or debit/credit cards with matching identification information. The facility processes commissary deposits online through www.JailATM.com, providing inmates with access to approved personal items that can make their daily experience more comfortable.

Mail correspondence plays an important role in maintaining family connections, with legal mail sent directly to the facility address and general correspondence processed through a specialized mailing system in Highland Heights, Kentucky. The detention center may offer various programs and services typical of Alabama correctional facilities, potentially including educational opportunities, religious services, and recreational activities, though specific program availability often depends on facility capacity and security classifications. Staff members work to maintain security while providing necessary services that support both rehabilitation goals and family communication needs.