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 Gilpin County Sheriff.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Gilpin County Sheriff 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 Gilpin County Sheriff.

Frequently asked questions about Gilpin County Sheriff

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 Gilpin County Sheriff.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Gilpin County Sheriff?

   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 Gilpin County Sheriff?

   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 Gilpin County Sheriff. 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 Gilpin County Sheriff. 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 Gilpin County Sheriff?

   Mailing address:

   Gilpin County Sheriff
   2960 Dory Hill Rd
   Black Hawk, CO 80422
   Phone: (303) 582-1060

5. What are the visiting hours at Gilpin County Sheriff?

   Visiting hours at Gilpin County Sheriff 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 (303) 582-1060 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 Gilpin County Sheriff?

   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 Gilpin County Sheriff for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Gilpin County Sheriff?

   You can send money to an inmate at Gilpin County Sheriff 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 Gilpin County Sheriff?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Gilpin County Sheriff, 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 Gilpin County Sheriff?

   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 Gilpin County Sheriff 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 Gilpin County Sheriff, 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 Gilpin County Detentions Division operates with a comprehensive approach that extends beyond traditional incarceration, encompassing court security, transportation services, and alternative inmate sentencing programs. Since opening in September 1995, the facility has evolved to serve the community through various rehabilitative initiatives while maintaining its core mission of public safety and secure detention.

Medical services at the facility are provided through Southern Health Partners, Inc., ensuring residents receive appropriate healthcare during their stay. Food services are managed by Summit Food Service, LLC, which also oversees the senior meals program, demonstrating the facility's broader community involvement. The facility has adapted its operations in response to public health needs, partnering with the Jefferson/Gilpin County Public Health Office to provide COVID-19 vaccinations to participating inmates. Beyond these confirmed services, the facility may offer educational programming, substance abuse counseling, and work release opportunities typical of Colorado correctional facilities.

The detention center's philosophy emphasizes that while incarceration serves as punishment, the facility operates with a focus on coordination within the criminal justice system. With a capacity that expanded from 55 to 96 inmates following 2017 modifications, the facility is staffed by 18 full-time sworn employees, one part-time sworn employee, and four full-time civilian Community Service Officers. Alternative sentencing programs suggest the facility may provide community service opportunities, electronic monitoring options, and other diversionary programs that allow offenders to maintain community ties while serving their sentences.

Daily Life & Visitation

The Gilpin County Justice Center, which opened in September 1995, houses inmates in a facility that was expanded from its original 55-bed capacity to 96 beds following modifications completed in 2017. Inmates typically begin their day with early morning counts and meal service provided through Summit Food Service, LLC, which supervises the jail's food program. The facility operates under policies that have been restructured to comply with CDC and Colorado Health Department guidelines, particularly regarding COVID-19 safety protocols. Medical services are provided by Southern Health Partners, Inc., ensuring inmates receive necessary healthcare during their stay.

The Detentions Division, staffed by 18 full-time sworn employees and additional civilian Community Service Officers, maintains structured daily routines that may include scheduled recreation time, educational programming, and work assignments where available. Inmates often have access to alternative sentencing programs administered by the facility, which can provide opportunities for community service or other rehabilitative activities. The jail's operations focus on maintaining a safe and secure environment while preparing inmates for court appearances and serving court-ordered sanctions.

Visitation and communication policies typically allow family members to maintain contact with inmates through scheduled visits and phone calls, though specific schedules and procedures may vary based on current health guidelines and facility operations. The Sheriff's Office has worked with the Jefferson/Gilpin County Public Health Office to offer COVID-19 vaccinations to inmates who choose to participate, demonstrating the facility's commitment to health and safety. Transportation services are coordinated through the Detentions Division for court appearances and other necessary transfers, ensuring inmates can fulfill their legal obligations while maintaining the security protocols essential to facility operations.