How to send messages, photos, and packages
Staying in touch with someone at Forest City means working within a few strict rules. Third-party or alternative phone arrangements aren't allowed, and all calls are monitored. The facility may also limit call usage. For electronic messages, Forest City uses TRULINCS—text only. Messages are screened and monitored, with a 13,000-character limit per message. Both the inmate and the outside contact must consent to monitoring before using TRULINCS. These communication services are funded through the Inmate Trust Fund, not taxpayer dollars. To use phone, video, or messaging services, you'll typically need to set up an account with the approved vendor, keep funds available, and make sure your device and software meet the vendor's requirements.
Search for a loved one and send messages and photos in minutes.
No. Forest City does not permit third-party or other alternative telephone call arrangements. Inmate calls are monitored, and the facility may impose limitations on call use.
TRULINCS at Forest City is text-only, and messages are screened and monitored. Each message is limited to 13,000 characters, and both inmates and outside contacts must consent to monitoring.
TRULINCS and related communication services are funded by the Inmate Trust Fund. They do not use taxpayer dollars.
Forest City staff open and inspect all incoming mail. Mail marked as privileged or special is opened only with the inmate present, but it’s still checked for contraband.
Packages from home aren’t allowed without prior written approval, and only limited items may be authorized (such as release clothing and approved medical devices). Books and other publications must be sent from the publisher or an approved vendor, not from home.
Put the inmate’s full name and booking ID on the envelope and include your full return address. Before mailing originals, check whether mail is scanned into an electronic system or routed to an offsite processor.
Your first visit goes smoother when you tackle the big gatekeepers ahead of time: confirming where your person is housed, getting approved to visit, and showing up with the right ID and expectations.
Visiting someone at Forest City means getting on their approved visiting list first. The Bureau of Prisons (BOP) handles clearance, and it all starts with one form: BP‑A0629 (Visitor Information).
MoneyGram transfers are usually fast—as long as you enter everything exactly right. Here's what to confirm first, the exact fields MoneyGram needs, and when you can expect the funds to post.
