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 Freeborn County Government enter.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Freeborn County Government enter 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 Freeborn County Government enter.

Frequently asked questions about Freeborn County Government enter

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 Freeborn County Government enter.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Freeborn County Government enter?

   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 Freeborn County Government enter?

   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 Freeborn County Government enter. 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 Freeborn County Government enter. 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 Freeborn County Government enter?

   Mailing address:

   Freeborn County Government enter
   411 S Broadway Ave
   Albert Lea, MN 56007
   Phone: (507) 377-5299

   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: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Sunday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

5. What are the visiting hours at Freeborn County Government enter?

   Visiting hours at Freeborn County Government enter 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 (507) 377-5299 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 Freeborn County Government enter?

   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 Freeborn County Government enter for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Freeborn County Government enter?

   You can send money to an inmate at Freeborn County Government enter 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 Freeborn County Government enter?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Freeborn County Government enter, 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 Freeborn County Government enter?

   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 Freeborn County Government enter 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 Freeborn County Government enter, 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

Chemical dependency treatment forms the cornerstone of rehabilitation efforts, addressing one of the most significant challenges facing residents during their incarceration. The facility's therapeutic initiatives typically focus on breaking cycles of substance abuse through structured counseling sessions and peer support groups. This comprehensive approach recognizes that addressing underlying addiction issues often proves essential for successful reintegration into the community upon release.

Educational initiatives may deliver foundational learning opportunities alongside vocational training designed to build practical skills. Residents often participate in basic education courses that help them complete high school equivalency requirements or improve literacy levels. Additionally, vocational training initiatives typically include hands-on instruction in trades such as plumbing and upholstery, providing residents with marketable skills that can lead to employment opportunities after their release.

Support services extend beyond traditional educational offerings to address complex personal challenges that residents may face. Domestic violence programs often include counseling and education components that help participants understand relationship dynamics and develop healthier communication patterns. These therapeutic initiatives typically work in conjunction with other support services to create a comprehensive framework for personal growth and behavioral change, ultimately preparing residents for more successful transitions back into their communities.

Daily Life & Visitation

Structure now governs every aspect of life within the facility, with residents following carefully organized schedules that begin early each morning. Wake-up calls typically occur before dawn, followed by mandatory headcounts and cell inspections that establish the day's foundation. Residents regularly move through designated time blocks for meals, programming, and recreation. These predictable routines deliver stability in an otherwise uncertain environment, helping individuals maintain focus on their legal proceedings and personal goals.

Living accommodations at Freeborn County Jail generally consist of shared cells or dormitory-style housing units, where residents may be housed with one or more individuals based on classification levels and available space. Personal property remains limited to essential items, with residents typically allowed basic hygiene products, limited clothing, and approved reading materials. Additionally, the facility operates a commissary system where residents can purchase supplemental food items, writing supplies, and other approved goods using funds from their accounts. Meals are served at regular intervals in designated dining areas or delivered directly to housing units, depending on security protocols and facility operations.

While daily schedules maintain strict structure, residents usually have access to various programming opportunities that may include educational classes, substance abuse counseling, and religious services. Recreation time often includes access to dayrooms, outdoor exercise areas when weather permits, and television viewing during designated hours. Family connections remain vital through scheduled visitation periods and telephone privileges, though specific policies regarding contact frequency and duration typically vary based on security classifications and facility rules. Work assignments within the facility may include kitchen duties, cleaning responsibilities, and maintenance tasks that provide residents with purposeful activity while supporting daily operations.