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 Franklin County Regional Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Franklin County 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 Franklin County Regional Jail.

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

   Mailing address:

   Franklin County Regional Jail
   400 Coffee Tree Rd
   Frankfort, KY 40601
   Phone: (502) 209-8529

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Thursday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Saturday: Closed
   • Sunday: Closed

5. What are the visiting hours at Franklin County Regional Jail?

   Visiting hours at Franklin County 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 (502) 209-8529 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 Franklin County 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 Franklin County Regional Jail for their specific mail policies.

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

   You can send money to an inmate at Franklin County 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 Franklin County Regional Jail?

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

Based on the available information, Franklin County Regional Jail maintains structured communication protocols to support connections between incarcerated individuals and their families and legal representatives. The facility has implemented a centralized mail processing system that distinguishes between standard correspondence and legal communications, ensuring appropriate handling of both types of mail while maintaining security standards.

The jail typically provides various support services that may include educational programming, substance abuse counseling, and reentry preparation assistance. Like many Kentucky correctional facilities, Franklin County Regional Jail often offers basic educational opportunities such as GED preparation classes and may provide access to vocational training programs designed to support successful community reintegration. Mental health services and addiction counseling programs are commonly available to address underlying issues that may have contributed to incarceration.

Additional services at the facility may include religious programming, library access, and recreational activities that promote positive social interaction and personal development. The jail likely maintains partnerships with local organizations to provide job readiness training and life skills workshops, though specific program details and availability can vary based on staffing and resources. Inmates and their families can obtain current information about available programs and services by contacting the facility directly at the provided inmate information line.

Daily Life & Visitation

Communication with loved ones forms a central part of the experience for individuals housed at Franklin County Regional Jail in Kentucky. Since March 2023, the facility has implemented a streamlined mail system requiring all correspondence from friends and family to be sent to a Highland Heights processing center, while legal mail and money orders are directed to a separate Frankfort address. This dual-address system reflects the facility's commitment to maintaining security while ensuring inmates can stay connected with their support networks outside.

The mail inspection process at Franklin County Regional Jail is thorough, with all incoming correspondence being opened and reviewed for contraband or rule violations. Letters must meet specific size requirements - no larger than standard letter size and thin enough to pass through sheet-fed scanners. The facility maintains strict guidelines prohibiting items such as stickers, homemade cards, cash, and any materials containing gang insignia or threatening language. These security measures, while comprehensive, are designed to protect both inmates and staff while allowing meaningful communication to continue.

Beyond correspondence, inmates at Franklin County Regional Jail typically have access to various daily activities and services common to Kentucky correctional facilities. The structured environment may include scheduled meal times, recreational periods, and programming opportunities, though specific details of these routines are managed according to security classification levels. Family members seeking to stay in touch can contact the inmate information line at 502-875-8782 for guidance on communication procedures and visiting arrangements, ensuring they can maintain important connections during this challenging time.