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 Decatur County Sheriff's Department.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Decatur County Sheriff's Department 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 Decatur County Sheriff's Department.

Frequently asked questions about Decatur County Sheriff's Department

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 Decatur County Sheriff's Department.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Decatur County Sheriff's Department?

   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 Decatur County Sheriff's Department?

   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 Decatur County Sheriff's Department. 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 Decatur County Sheriff's Department. 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 Decatur County Sheriff's Department?

   Mailing address:

   Decatur County Sheriff's Department
   912 Spring Creek Rd
   Bainbridge, GA 39817
   Phone: (229) 248-3044

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Saturday: Closed
   • Sunday: Closed

5. What are the visiting hours at Decatur County Sheriff's Department?

   Visiting hours at Decatur County Sheriff's Department 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 (229) 248-3044 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 Decatur County Sheriff's Department?

   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 Decatur County Sheriff's Department for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Decatur County Sheriff's Department?

   You can send money to an inmate at Decatur County Sheriff's Department 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 Decatur County Sheriff's Department?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Decatur County Sheriff's Department, 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 Decatur County Sheriff's Department?

   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 Decatur County Sheriff's Department 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 Decatur County Sheriff's Department, 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 transformation becomes possible when those incarcerated gain access to structured opportunities designed to build essential life skills and foster positive change. Decatur County Jail in Bainbridge typically emphasizes creating a secure environment where individuals can engage in meaningful activities that promote personal development and prepare them for successful reintegration into their communities. The facility's approach often centers on providing diverse pathways for growth while maintaining the safety and security necessary for effective programming.

Educational advancement and practical skill development form cornerstone elements of the facility's offerings. Those incarcerated may access education programs that help individuals work toward completing their academic goals in a structured setting. Additionally, vocational training opportunities often provide hands-on experience in practical trades, allowing participants to develop marketable skills that can support their future employment prospects. Distance learning options may also be available, enabling continued educational progress through remote coursework when appropriate.

Support services and therapeutic interventions typically complement the educational and vocational components of the facility's programming. Group therapy sessions often provide structured environments where those incarcerated can address personal challenges and develop healthier coping strategies. Faith-based services and religious programs may offer spiritual guidance and community support for individuals seeking this type of assistance. The facility may also furnish specialized programs such as upholstery training, which combines practical skill development with therapeutic benefits, helping participants build confidence while learning valuable trade skills in a supportive, security-focused environment.

Daily Life & Visitation

Maintaining connections with family and friends becomes a cornerstone of life for those incarcerated at Decatur County Jail in Bainbridge, Georgia. The facility currently operates on a structured schedule that continues to emphasize both security protocols and opportunities for social interaction among residents. Daily routines typically begin with early morning counts, followed by meal service and various activities that may include educational programming, recreational time, or work assignments within the facility.

Housing arrangements generally consist of dormitory-style units or individual cells, depending on classification levels and available space. Those incarcerated often share common areas where they can interact with others during designated periods throughout the day. Meals are typically served in a central dining area, providing another opportunity for social connection among residents. The facility usually maintains specific schedules for different housing units to ensure orderly movement and supervision.

Additionally, the jail typically offers various programs that furnish structure and purpose to daily life, which may include educational classes, substance abuse counseling, or religious services. Visitation policies generally allow for regular contact with family members and approved visitors, while communication options often include telephone access and mail correspondence. While maintaining security remains paramount, these connections with the outside community continue to play an important role in supporting those incarcerated during their time at the facility. Work assignments within the jail may include kitchen duties, cleaning responsibilities, or maintenance tasks that help residents contribute to facility operations while developing skills and maintaining a sense of purpose.