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 Desoto Correctional Institution.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Desoto Correctional Institution 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 Desoto Correctional Institution.

Frequently asked questions about Desoto Correctional Institution

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 Desoto Correctional Institution.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Desoto Correctional Institution?

   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 Desoto Correctional Institution?

   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 Desoto Correctional Institution. 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 Desoto Correctional Institution. 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 Desoto Correctional Institution?

   Mailing address:

   Desoto Correctional Institution
   13617 FL-70
   Arcadia, FL 34266
   Phone: (863) 494-3727

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
   • Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
   • Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
   • Thursday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
   • Friday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
   • Saturday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
   • Sunday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM

5. What are the visiting hours at Desoto Correctional Institution?

   Visiting hours at Desoto Correctional Institution 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 (863) 494-3727 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 Desoto Correctional Institution?

   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 Desoto Correctional Institution for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Desoto Correctional Institution?

   You can send money to an inmate at Desoto Correctional Institution 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 Desoto Correctional Institution?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Desoto Correctional Institution, 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 Desoto Correctional Institution?

   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 Desoto Correctional Institution 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 Desoto Correctional Institution, 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.

Daily Life & Visitation

As an inmate at Desoto Correctional Institution, daily life can be quite regimented and controlled. Inmates are required to adhere to a strict schedule which includes wake-up calls as early as 5:00 am, followed by breakfast and chores. Inmates are assigned specific job assignments they have to carry out every day which includes custodial work and groundskeeping.

During the day, inmates attend various programs aimed at improving their education, vocation, or addiction issues. Apart from those, the inmates also have access to a library for extensive reading and sports facilities (if they behave well) which helps them to pass the time and maintain a healthy mindset.

Despite their harsh living conditions, the inmates at Desoto do have some opportunities for interaction. Visitation days happen for every two weeks (which only allow immediate family members) which allows inmates to meet their loved ones. The institution also allows for religious practices for inmates that follow any kind of faith. Counseling for troubled cases is also available on the premises.

As running a prison in a cost-managed way becomes more crucial, there have been attempts to reduce funding in curricular and extracurricular activities for inmates. Overall, the daily experience of an inmate in Desoto never lives up to the indoor management one must practice. However, sticking to the provided schedule and participating in the programs provided can be vital in keeping the inmates intellectually active, assist with early release on parole, and improbably reduce recidivism rates in the long run.