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 Forsyth County Detention Center.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Forsyth County Detention 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 Forsyth County Detention Center.

Frequently asked questions about Forsyth County Detention 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 Forsyth County Detention Center.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Forsyth County Detention 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 Forsyth County Detention 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 Forsyth County Detention 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 Forsyth County Detention 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 Forsyth County Detention Center?

   Mailing address:

   Forsyth County Detention Center
   201 N Church St
   Winston-Salem, NC 27101
   Phone: (336) 917-7600

   Business hours:

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

5. What are the visiting hours at Forsyth County Detention Center?

   Visiting hours at Forsyth County Detention 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 (336) 917-7600 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 Forsyth County Detention 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 Forsyth County Detention Center for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Forsyth County Detention Center?

   You can send money to an inmate at Forsyth County Detention 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 Forsyth County Detention Center?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Forsyth County Detention 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 Forsyth County Detention 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 Forsyth County Detention 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 Forsyth County Detention 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

The Forsyth County Law Enforcement Detention Center provides essential communication and support services to maintain connections between inmates and their families and communities. The facility operates a comprehensive visitation program with established policies available in both English and Spanish, recognizing the diverse population it serves. Clergy visitation services are specifically accommodated, allowing for spiritual guidance and counseling support during incarceration. Additionally, inmates have access to telephone services and commissary privileges, which help maintain morale and provide basic necessities during their stay at this downtown Winston-Salem facility.

Beyond these core services, the detention center may offer educational programming typical of North Carolina correctional facilities, potentially including GED preparation classes and basic literacy instruction for inmates seeking to improve their academic credentials. Vocational training opportunities could include job readiness workshops and life skills courses designed to prepare individuals for successful reintegration into the community. The facility likely provides substance abuse counseling and mental health services, as these programs are commonly essential components of modern detention operations.

Given its role in housing both pre-trial and sentenced individuals, the detention center may also coordinate with local social services and community organizations to facilitate reentry planning and support services. Medical care is typically available on-site, and the facility may offer recreational activities and library services to support inmate welfare during their time in custody. These programs work together to address the diverse needs of the male and female population housed within the facility's twin tower structure.

Daily Life & Visitation

Within the eleven-story twin tower structure of the Forsyth County Law Enforcement Detention Center, inmates typically begin their day with early morning counts and meal service. The facility's 735 modular steel cells house both male and female inmates, including those serving misdemeanor sentences and individuals awaiting trial. The structured environment may include scheduled meal times, recreation periods, and programming opportunities, though specific schedules often vary based on housing assignments and security classifications within this maximum security facility.

Family connections remain an important aspect of life at the detention center, with visitation policies clearly outlined for both the public and clergy members. The facility provides multiple communication options for inmates to stay in touch with loved ones, including telephone services and a commissary system that allows families to provide approved items. Mail services are also available, with specific policies governing correspondence to ensure security while maintaining these vital family connections.

The downtown Winston-Salem location, bordered by Second, Third, Church, and Chestnut Streets, houses up to 1,016 inmates across its 400,000 square feet of space. Like most North Carolina detention facilities, daily routines typically include structured activities, educational or work programs when available, and regular security procedures designed to maintain order while providing necessary services. Inmates may participate in various programs aimed at rehabilitation and preparation for reintegration into the community, though specific offerings can vary based on facility resources and individual circumstances.