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 Flathead County Sheriff's.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Flathead County Sheriff's

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 Flathead County Sheriff's.

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

   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 Flathead County Sheriff's?

   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 Flathead County Sheriff's. 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 Flathead County Sheriff's. 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 Flathead County Sheriff's?

   Mailing address:

   Flathead County Sheriff's
   920 S Main St
   Kalispell, MT 59901
   Phone: (406) 758-5610

   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 Flathead County Sheriff's?

   Visiting hours at Flathead County Sheriff's 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 (406) 758-5610 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 Flathead County Sheriff's?

   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 Flathead County Sheriff's for their specific mail policies.

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

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

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

   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 Flathead County Sheriff's 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 Flathead County Sheriff's, 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 Flathead County Detention Center provides substance abuse support through Alcoholics Anonymous (A.A.) and Narcotics Anonymous (N.A.) meetings, offering inmates access to 12-step programs designed to address alcohol and drug addiction issues. These programs recognize that addiction often creates barriers more confining than physical walls, providing structured support for individuals working toward recovery. The facility also maintains a book cart program, delivering donated reading materials from local churches, businesses, and community members to every housing pod on a weekly basis, ensuring inmates have access to educational and recreational reading opportunities.

Beyond these established programs, the detention center may offer additional rehabilitative services typical of Montana correctional facilities. Educational opportunities could include GED preparation classes and basic literacy programs to help inmates develop essential academic skills. Vocational training programs might focus on practical skills such as food service, maintenance, or other job-related competencies that support successful reintegration into the community. Mental health counseling services are likely available to address underlying issues that may contribute to criminal behavior, while religious services and spiritual counseling may provide additional emotional support during incarceration.

The facility’s approach to inmate welfare extends to physical wellness through outdoor recreation opportunities in an approximate 40 x 30 foot space that allows for fresh air and basketball activities. Communication with family members is supported through prepaid calling services provided by NCIC Inmate Communications, helping maintain important connections during detention. Additional support services may include case management assistance, pre-release planning programs, and connections to community resources that help prepare inmates for successful reentry into society upon release.

Daily Life & Visitation

The Flathead County Detention Center operates around the clock, housing both male and female inmates in a facility that expanded to 154 beds in 2018. Most residents are pre-trial detainees awaiting court proceedings rather than convicted individuals, creating a different atmosphere than traditional prisons. The facility maintains strict security protocols while providing essential services, with detention staff trained at the Montana Law Enforcement Academy and certified in CPR and established Aid to ensure inmate safety and proper management.

Inmates typically have access to medical care on a daily basis, though specific health information remains confidential under HIPAA regulations. The facility offers commissary services twice weekly, where inmates can purchase hygiene items and food selections using cash deposits from family members. Communication with the outside world occurs through NCIC Inmate Communications’ prepaid calling service, though inmates cannot receive incoming calls. Educational and recreational opportunities may include access to a book cart program, where donated reading materials from local churches, businesses, and community members are distributed weekly to each housing pod throughout the facility.

Physical activity and fresh air are available through an outdoor recreation area measuring approximately 40 by 30 feet, which includes basketball facilities for exercise and recreation. The facility also supports rehabilitation efforts by hosting Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous meetings, providing inmates with access to traditional 12-step programs designed to address substance abuse issues. These programs often play a crucial role in helping individuals work toward recovery while serving their time, recognizing that addiction frequently contributes to the circumstances that led to their incarceration.