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 County Adult Detention Facility.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Desoto County Adult Detention Facility 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 County Adult Detention Facility.

Frequently asked questions about Desoto County Adult Detention Facility

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 County Adult Detention Facility.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Desoto County Adult Detention Facility?

   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 County Adult Detention Facility?

   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 County Adult Detention Facility. 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 County Adult Detention Facility. 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 County Adult Detention Facility?

   Mailing address:

   Desoto County Adult Detention Facility
   3425 Industrial Dr W
   Hernando, MS 38632
   Phone: (662) 469-8570

   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 Desoto County Adult Detention Facility?

   Visiting hours at Desoto County Adult Detention Facility 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 (662) 469-8570 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 County Adult Detention Facility?

   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 County Adult Detention Facility for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Desoto County Adult Detention Facility?

   You can send money to an inmate at Desoto County Adult Detention Facility 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 County Adult Detention Facility?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Desoto County Adult Detention Facility, 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 County Adult Detention Facility?

   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 County Adult Detention Facility 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 County Adult Detention Facility, 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 DeSoto County Adult Detention Facility in Hernando, Mississippi, emphasizes modern approaches to inmate communication and family connection through its remote visitation program. This video conferencing technology allows inmates to maintain meaningful contact with their families, which research shows can be crucial for successful reintegration. The facility’s commitment to maintaining these family bonds reflects a broader understanding of how support systems contribute to reducing recidivism.

Beyond visitation services, the facility typically may offer educational programming to help inmates work toward their GED or improve basic literacy skills. Vocational training opportunities often include programs that teach marketable skills such as construction trades, food service, or maintenance work. These programs are designed to provide inmates with practical skills they can use upon release. The facility may also provide substance abuse counseling and life skills classes, addressing some of the underlying issues that contribute to criminal behavior.

As an ACA-accredited facility, DeSoto County Adult Detention Facility maintains high standards for inmate care and programming. The facility’s medical staff of 10 professionals ensures that inmates receive necessary healthcare services during their incarceration. Mental health services may also be available to address psychological needs and help inmates develop coping strategies. Religious services and library access are commonly provided to support personal growth and reflection during incarceration.

Daily Life & Visitation

The DeSoto County Adult Detention Facility in Hernando, Mississippi operates with modern security systems and technology that shape the structured environment for its residents. Built in 2012 and expanded in 2015 to accommodate 568 beds, the facility maintains order through electronic access controls and modern surveillance equipment, while a dedicated staff of 90 personnel, including 80 security officers and 10 medical professionals, oversee operations around the clock.

Inmates typically follow a structured daily schedule that may include designated meal times, recreational periods, and programming opportunities, though specific routine details vary based on housing assignments and individual circumstances. The facility’s modern design often allows for common areas where residents can participate in activities during approved hours, while medical staff provide ongoing healthcare services as needed. Living conditions are maintained according to American Correctional Association (ACA) standards, as the facility holds this accreditation demonstrating its commitment to safe and humane detention practices.

Family connections remain an important aspect of life at the facility through the remote visitation system, which utilizes video conferencing technology to allow inmates to communicate with their loved ones. This modern approach to visitation provides convenient access for families while maintaining security protocols within the facility. The combination of structured daily routines, professional medical care, and family communication opportunities reflects the facility’s role as a vital component of DeSoto County’s criminal justice system, balancing security needs with humane treatment standards.