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 Dakota County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Dakota 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 Dakota County Jail.

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

   Mailing address:

   Dakota County Jail
   1580 Hwy 55
   Hastings, MN 55033
   Phone: (651) 438-4800

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Thursday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Saturday: Closed
   • Sunday: Closed

5. What are the visiting hours at Dakota County Jail?

   Visiting hours at Dakota 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 (651) 438-4800 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 Dakota 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 Dakota County Jail for their specific mail policies.

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

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

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

From basic literacy to advanced vocational certification, the spectrum of development opportunities at Dakota County Jail reflects a commitment to addressing the diverse needs of individuals in custody. The facility typically recognizes that meaningful change requires comprehensive support across multiple areas of personal growth. This holistic approach often includes educational advancement, practical skill development, and therapeutic intervention designed to address underlying challenges that may have contributed to criminal behavior.

Educational opportunities may offer individuals the chance to pursue fundamental academic skills through literacy programs and GED preparation courses. These foundational learning experiences often serve as stepping stones to more specialized training. Also available are vocational training programs that typically focus on developing marketable job skills in various trades and industries. Such hands-on learning experiences may provide individuals with practical abilities that can translate directly into employment opportunities upon release, helping to establish a foundation for successful community reintegration.

Support services often extend beyond traditional programming to include community resource connections that help individuals establish networks and access services they may need after release. Chemical dependency treatment typically addresses substance abuse issues through structured therapeutic intervention, recognizing the significant role addiction often plays in criminal behavior. Also offered are music programs that may provide creative outlets for self-expression and emotional processing. These diverse therapeutic and support opportunities work together to address the complex factors that influence individual behavior and decision-making.

Daily Life & Visitation

The sound of morning announcements now signals the beginning of each day for individuals housed at Dakota County Jail, as structured routines help maintain order and purpose within the facility. Wake-up typically occurs in the early morning hours, followed by head counts and the distribution of meals to housing units. Individuals regularly participate in scheduled activities throughout the day, which may include educational programming, work assignments, and recreational periods. The facility generally operates on a consistent schedule that provides predictability while accommodating security requirements and operational needs.

Living accommodations at the facility typically consist of shared cells or dormitory-style housing units, where individuals may be housed with one or more roommates depending on classification levels and available space. Personal property is generally limited to essential items and approved commissary purchases, which individuals can typically order on designated days. Also, the facility usually provides basic necessities including bedding, hygiene items, and uniforms, though families may be able to deposit funds for additional commissary items. However, all personal belongings are subject to security protocols and facility regulations that help maintain safety for everyone.

Structured programming schedules often include educational classes, substance abuse counseling, and vocational training opportunities that offer individuals ways to use their time constructively. Recreation and exercise opportunities may be available in designated areas during specific time periods, allowing for physical activity and social interaction. Also, visitation policies typically allow for regular contact with family members and friends, either through in-person visits or video calling systems, depending on the facility's current procedures. However, all communication and visitation is subject to security screening and scheduling requirements that help ensure the safety and security of the facility.