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 George F Bailey Detention.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at George F Bailey Detention 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 George F Bailey Detention.

Frequently asked questions about George F Bailey Detention

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 George F Bailey Detention.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to George F Bailey Detention?

   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 George F Bailey Detention?

   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 George F Bailey Detention. 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 George F Bailey Detention. 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 George F Bailey Detention?

   Mailing address:

   George F Bailey Detention
   446 Alta Rd
   San Diego, CA 92158
   Phone: (619) 210-0385

   Business hours:

   • Monday: Open 24 hours
   • Tuesday: Open 24 hours
   • Wednesday: Open 24 hours
   • Thursday: Open 24 hours
   • Friday: Open 24 hours
   • Saturday: Open 24 hours
   • Sunday: Open 24 hours

5. What are the visiting hours at George F Bailey Detention?

   Visiting hours at George F Bailey Detention 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 (619) 210-0385 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 George F Bailey Detention?

   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 George F Bailey Detention for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at George F Bailey Detention?

   You can send money to an inmate at George F Bailey Detention 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 George F Bailey Detention?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At George F Bailey Detention, 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 George F Bailey Detention?

   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 George F Bailey Detention 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 George F Bailey Detention, 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 George Bailey Detention Facility provides comprehensive support services through its dedicated professional staff, including specialized counseling services, religious programs, and medical care for its diverse population. With staff comprising food services, religious services, medical services, and counseling services teams, the facility addresses the varied needs of those in custody while maintaining operational excellence through its administrative and maintenance support divisions.

The facility’s design accommodates specialized programming needs through its six housing units and dedicated areas for medical services and processing. Given that GBDF houses individuals with special housing needs across three distinct special management units, programs may include mental health counseling, substance abuse treatment, and behavioral intervention services. The facility’s religious services component typically offers chaplaincy programs, faith-based counseling, and spiritual guidance opportunities that support rehabilitation and personal growth during incarceration.

Educational and vocational programming may include basic literacy classes, GED preparation, and job readiness training that helps prepare individuals for successful reentry. The facility’s comprehensive support structure, combined with its medical services and counseling programs, creates an environment where those incarcerated can access resources for personal development. Additionally, the recently implemented video visitation system through SMART Communications enhances family connections, allowing two 30-minute visits per week that support maintaining important relationships during the incarceration period.

Daily Life & Visitation

The George Bailey Detention Facility operates with structured routines that reflect its status as a maximum-security facility housing many individuals across six distinct housing units. Located in Otay Mesa, this 189,050 square foot facility maintains strict schedules that typically begin with early morning counts and meal service, followed by structured programming throughout the day. The facility’s diverse population includes individuals with special housing needs, requiring tailored daily routines that may include separate recreation times, specialized medical appointments, and modified programming schedules to ensure safety and security for all residents.

Video visitation through the SMART Communications System has become a central part of maintaining family connections, with sessions available seven days a week for 30 minutes each. Incarcerated individuals may schedule up to two video visits per week on a established-come, established-served basis, though same-day visits are not permitted. These virtual connections often serve as highlights in the weekly routine, providing important contact with loved ones. The facility’s comprehensive support services, including medical care, counseling, religious services, and educational programming, are typically integrated into daily schedules to promote rehabilitation and maintain physical and mental health.

The facility’s design, featuring specialized housing units and a dedicated medical area, allows for varied daily experiences depending on an individual’s classification and needs. Those in general population may participate in work assignments through food services, laundry operations, or maintenance support, while others may have more restricted movement patterns. Throughout the facility, professional and sworn staff coordinate daily operations that balance security requirements with programming opportunities, ensuring that each day includes structured activities, meals, and time for personal care within the constraints of the maximum-security environment.