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 Dixon Correctional Center.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Dixon Correctional Center 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 Dixon Correctional Center.

Frequently asked questions about Dixon Correctional Center

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 Dixon Correctional Center.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Dixon Correctional Center?

   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 Dixon Correctional Center?

   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 Dixon Correctional Center. 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 Dixon Correctional Center. 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 Dixon Correctional Center?

   Mailing address:

   Dixon Correctional Center
   2600 N Brinton Ave
   Dixon, IL 61021
   Phone: (815) 288-5561

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
   • Tuesday: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
   • Wednesday: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
   • Thursday: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
   • Friday: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
   • Saturday: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
   • Sunday: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM

5. What are the visiting hours at Dixon Correctional Center?

   Visiting hours at Dixon Correctional Center 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 (815) 288-5561 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 Dixon Correctional Center?

   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 Dixon Correctional Center for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Dixon Correctional Center?

   You can send money to an inmate at Dixon Correctional Center 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 Dixon Correctional Center?

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

   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 Dixon Correctional Center 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 Dixon Correctional Center, 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

Mental health services form the cornerstone of programming at Dixon Correctional Center, which operates specialized units including a 213-bed Psychology Unit and a 462-bed Special Treatment Center designed to address the comprehensive needs of mentally ill individuals in custody. The facility's mission emphasizes providing both individual and group mental health interventions, creating a therapeutic environment that supports rehabilitation alongside security protocols.

The center's programming structure typically extends beyond mental health to encompass educational opportunities that may include adult basic education, GED preparation, and literacy programs designed to help individuals develop essential academic skills. Vocational training programs often focus on practical skills development, potentially offering instruction in areas such as building maintenance, food service, or other trade-related fields that can support successful reintegration into the community upon release.

Counseling and support services at Dixon Correctional Center likely include substance abuse treatment programs, cognitive-behavioral interventions, and life skills development courses that address issues such as anger management, decision-making, and social responsibility. The facility may also offer religious services, recreational activities, and library access to support the overall well-being of individuals in custody. With video visitation available seven days a week and electronic messaging services through ICS CorrLinks, the center maintains opportunities for individuals to stay connected with family and support networks, which research indicates can be crucial for successful rehabilitation outcomes.

Daily Life & Visitation

Individuals housed at Dixon Correctional Center in Illinois navigate their days within a structured environment that emphasizes mental health support and security protocols. The facility, which opened in July 1983, operates with an operational capacity of 1,975 and currently houses 991 medium-security adult males as of June 2024. Given the center's major focus on providing comprehensive mental health programming, residents typically experience a routine that may include therapeutic sessions, group counseling, and specialized treatment activities alongside standard correctional programming.

Family connections remain an important aspect of life at the facility through various communication options. Video visitation operates seven days a week from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM, though visitors must sign up in advance and are encouraged to log on 15 minutes prior to their scheduled time. The facility has transitioned to ICSolutions for technology services, providing electronic messaging through ICS CorrLinks to help maintain contact with loved ones. Mail correspondence continues through the traditional postal system, with all correspondence addressed to the individual's name and IDOC number at 2600 N. Brinton Avenue in Dixon.

The center's commitment to mental health programming likely influences the daily structure for many residents, particularly those in the Dixon Psych Unit or Special Treatment Center, which have operational capacities of 213 and 462 respectively. While specific program schedules may vary, residents typically participate in educational opportunities, work assignments, recreational activities, and treatment programs designed to address individual needs. The facility strives to maintain a safe and secure environment where mental health services can be effectively delivered, creating a daily routine that balances security requirements with therapeutic objectives.