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 Cuyahoga County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Cuyahoga County Jail

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 Cuyahoga County Jail.

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

   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 Cuyahoga County Jail?

   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 Cuyahoga County Jail. 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 Cuyahoga County Jail. 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 Cuyahoga County Jail?

   Mailing address:

   Cuyahoga County Jail
   1215 W 3rd St
   Cleveland, OH 44113
   Phone: (216) 443-6000

   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 Cuyahoga County Jail?

   Visiting hours at Cuyahoga County Jail 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 (216) 443-6000 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 Cuyahoga County Jail?

   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 Cuyahoga County Jail for their specific mail policies.

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

   You can send money to an inmate at Cuyahoga County Jail 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 Cuyahoga County Jail?

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

   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 Cuyahoga County Jail 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 Cuyahoga County Jail, 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 expansive array of opportunities at Lorain Correctional Institution reflects a commitment to addressing the diverse needs of individuals through multifaceted programming. This comprehensive approach recognizes that meaningful change requires access to various pathways for growth and development. The facility typically maintains a philosophy centered on providing individuals with the tools and resources necessary to build foundations for successful community reintegration.

Educational initiatives often form a cornerstone of the opportunities available, with individuals having access to various learning environments that may include basic literacy development, GED preparation, and civic education components. These academic pursuits are frequently complemented by job training opportunities that focus on developing marketable skills in various trades and industries. Furthermore, vocational programming typically emphasizes hands-on learning experiences that prepare individuals for employment upon release, covering areas that may include construction, manufacturing, and service industry skills.

Support services play an equally vital role in the comprehensive programming structure, with recovery services often available to address substance abuse issues and underlying behavioral patterns. Housing assistance programming may help individuals develop practical life skills and prepare for independent living situations. The facility typically offers grounds maintenance opportunities that provide both work experience and a sense of contribution to the institutional community. Furthermore, mentoring programs often connect individuals with guidance and support systems that extend beyond their time at the facility, creating networks that may continue to benefit participants as they transition back into their communities.

Daily Life & Visitation

The sound of morning announcements echoes through housing units, signaling the start of another structured day for individuals at Lorain Correctional Institution. Today follows a predictable pattern that offers both routine and purpose, with individuals typically rising early for count procedures before beginning their assigned activities. The facility consistently maintains scheduled programming that includes work assignments, educational opportunities, and recreational periods throughout the day.

Living accommodations generally consist of shared cells or dormitory-style housing units, where individuals maintain personal spaces within the structured environment. Meals are typically served in designated dining areas at scheduled times, with menus that aim to provide balanced nutrition while accommodating various dietary needs and restrictions. Furthermore, the facility usually offers commissary services where individuals may purchase approved personal items and snacks to supplement their daily provisions.

Although movement throughout the facility remains controlled and supervised, individuals often have access to recreational activities such as outdoor exercise periods, gymnasium time, and library services. Work assignments may include facility maintenance, food service, or other institutional operations that provide structure and potential skill development. The facility typically facilitates family connections through scheduled visitation periods and telephone privileges, allowing individuals to maintain important relationships with loved ones. Programming schedules generally offer educational classes, vocational training opportunities, and counseling services designed to support personal development during incarceration.