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 Eastern Regional Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Eastern Regional 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 Eastern Regional Jail.

Frequently asked questions about Eastern Regional 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 Eastern Regional Jail.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Eastern Regional 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 Eastern Regional 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 Eastern Regional 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 Eastern Regional 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 Eastern Regional Jail?

   Mailing address:

   Eastern Regional Jail
   94 Grapevine Rd
   Martinsburg, WV 25405
   Phone: (304) 267-0046

   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 Eastern Regional Jail?

   Visiting hours at Eastern Regional 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 (304) 267-0046 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 Eastern Regional 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 Eastern Regional Jail for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Eastern Regional Jail?

   You can send money to an inmate at Eastern Regional 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 Eastern Regional Jail?

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

The Western Tidewater Regional Jail operates with a comprehensive mission focused on providing care, custody, and support through various inmate programs designed to serve the jurisdictions of Franklin, Hampton, Suffolk, and Isle of Wight County in Virginia. The facility's electronic monitoring program represents one component of their broader approach to corrections, while inmates and their families can access communication services through the Connect Network GTL phone system and messaging capabilities. The jail also maintains commissary services through Oasis Commissary, allowing inmates to purchase approved items, and partners with Aramark Fresh Favorites for food services.

Beyond the basic operational services, Western Tidewater Regional Jail may offer educational programming to help inmates develop academic skills and work toward completing their GED or other educational goals. Vocational training programs could include job readiness preparation, basic computer literacy, and skills development in various trades that align with local employment opportunities. The facility likely provides substance abuse counseling and treatment programs, given that addiction issues often contribute to incarceration, along with mental health support services to address the psychological needs of the inmate population.

Support services at the facility may include religious programming with chaplaincy services, life skills classes covering topics such as financial literacy and conflict resolution, and reentry preparation programs designed to help inmates successfully transition back into their communities. The jail's commitment to cost-effective services that enhance public safety suggests they focus on evidence-based programming that reduces recidivism while maintaining security. Family support services, including visitation programs and resources for maintaining family connections during incarceration, may also be available to help preserve important relationships that support successful reintegration.

Daily Life & Visitation

The Western Tidewater Regional Jail operates with a mission focused on providing care, custody, and support to inmates while serving the cities of Franklin, Hampton, Suffolk, and the County of Isle of Wight in Virginia. Inmates typically begin their day with scheduled counts and meal service, followed by structured programming opportunities that may include educational classes, vocational training, or work assignments. The facility emphasizes efficient operations while maintaining safety and security standards throughout daily routines.

Communication with family and friends is facilitated through multiple channels available to inmates. The GTL phone system allows for scheduled calls, while messaging services help maintain important connections with loved ones. Commissary services through providers like Oasis Commissary enable inmates to purchase approved personal items and snacks, with families able to support their incarcerated relatives through secure payment systems. These services typically operate on scheduled days throughout the week, providing inmates with opportunities to maintain some normalcy in their daily lives.

The facility's commitment to competent and cost-effective services extends to inmate programs designed to support rehabilitation and preparation for reintegration. Daily schedules often include time for recreational activities, library access, and participation in various educational or treatment programs. Electronic monitoring may be available for eligible individuals as an alternative supervision option. Throughout all activities, staff maintain focus on security protocols while working to provide courteous service that supports both inmate welfare and community safety objectives.