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 Formby State Jail - Criminal Justice Department.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Formby State Jail - Criminal Justice Department 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 Formby State Jail - Criminal Justice Department.

Frequently asked questions about Formby State Jail - Criminal Justice Department

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 Formby State Jail - Criminal Justice Department.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Formby State Jail - Criminal Justice Department?

   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 Formby State Jail - Criminal Justice Department?

   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 Formby State Jail - Criminal Justice Department. 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 Formby State Jail - Criminal Justice Department. 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 Formby State Jail - Criminal Justice Department?

   Mailing address:

   Formby State Jail - Criminal Justice Department
   998 Co Rd AA
   Plainview, TX 79072
   Phone: (806) 296-2448

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Saturday: Closed
   • Sunday: Closed

5. What are the visiting hours at Formby State Jail - Criminal Justice Department?

   Visiting hours at Formby State Jail - Criminal Justice Department 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 (806) 296-2448 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 Formby State Jail - Criminal Justice Department?

   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 Formby State Jail - Criminal Justice Department for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Formby State Jail - Criminal Justice Department?

   You can send money to an inmate at Formby State Jail - Criminal Justice Department 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 Formby State Jail - Criminal Justice Department?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Formby State Jail - Criminal Justice Department, 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 Formby State Jail - Criminal Justice Department?

   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 Formby State Jail - Criminal Justice Department 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 Formby State Jail - Criminal Justice Department, 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

Through comprehensive programming designed to address individual needs, support services at Formby State Jail create pathways for personal growth and successful community reintegration. The facility's approach centers on providing structured opportunities that build essential life skills while fostering positive behavioral changes. These programs typically emphasize both immediate support and long-term preparation for release, recognizing that meaningful engagement often leads to reduced recidivism and stronger family connections.

Educational and vocational programs form the foundation of skill-building opportunities for the population. Literacy programs may supply basic reading and writing instruction, helping participants develop fundamental communication abilities essential for employment and daily life. Also available are vocational training opportunities that often include hands-on learning experiences, with automotive repair programs providing practical mechanical skills that translate directly to job opportunities upon release. These educational initiatives typically focus on building confidence alongside technical competencies.

Work programs offer structured daily routines that mirror employment expectations in the community, while faith-based initiatives may supply spiritual guidance and moral support for those seeking personal transformation. Music programs also contribute to the therapeutic environment, providing creative outlets that can reduce stress and promote emotional well-being. Together, these support services create a network of assistance that addresses various aspects of rehabilitation, from practical job skills to emotional healing, helping prepare the population for successful reentry into their communities and reconnection with their families.

Daily Life & Visitation

Organizational frameworks shape every aspect of the experience for the population at Formby State Jail, where systematic scheduling currently governs daily activities from morning counts to evening lockdown. The facility continues to operate on a structured timeline that typically begins with early morning wake-up calls, followed by scheduled meals, work assignments, and programming activities. Count procedures occur at regular intervals throughout the day. Generally, the population moves between activities in supervised groups, with transitions managed through a system of announcements and escort protocols.

Living accommodations at the facility typically consist of dormitory-style housing units or multi-person cells, depending on classification levels and available space. The population usually shares common areas within their assigned housing units, which may include day rooms with televisions and basic recreational equipment. Personal property allowances generally follow state guidelines, permitting residents to maintain limited personal items and commissary purchases. However, storage space remains restricted, requiring careful management of belongings.

Also available to the population are various work assignments that may include kitchen duties, maintenance tasks, laundry operations, and general facility upkeep. These assignments typically supply structure to daily routines while providing modest compensation. Recreation opportunities often include outdoor exercise periods, indoor fitness activities, and organized sports when weather and security conditions permit. Visitation policies generally allow for scheduled family visits, though specific scheduling and duration may vary based on facility capacity and security requirements. The population can also typically maintain contact with family members through supervised telephone calls and correspondence, with communication privileges often tied to behavioral compliance and program participation.