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 Gogebic County Sheriff's Office.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Gogebic County Sheriff's Office 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 Gogebic County Sheriff's Office.

Frequently asked questions about Gogebic County Sheriff's Office

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 Gogebic County Sheriff's Office.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Gogebic County Sheriff's Office?

   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 Gogebic County Sheriff's Office?

   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 Gogebic County Sheriff's Office. 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 Gogebic County Sheriff's Office. 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 Gogebic County Sheriff's Office?

   Mailing address:

   Gogebic County Sheriff's Office
   100 W Iron St
   Bessemer, MI 49911
   Phone: (906) 667-0203

5. What are the visiting hours at Gogebic County Sheriff's Office?

   Visiting hours at Gogebic County Sheriff's Office 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 (906) 667-0203 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 Gogebic County Sheriff's Office?

   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 Gogebic County Sheriff's Office for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Gogebic County Sheriff's Office?

   You can send money to an inmate at Gogebic County Sheriff's Office 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 Gogebic County Sheriff's Office?

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

   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 Gogebic County Sheriff's Office 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 Gogebic County Sheriff's Office, 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

Personal growth becomes the cornerstone of rehabilitation when inmates have access to comprehensive services designed to address both immediate needs and long-term goals. The Gogebic County Sheriff's Office typically emphasizes a holistic approach to inmate development, recognizing that meaningful change often requires addressing multiple aspects of an individual's life simultaneously. This philosophy guides the facility's service delivery, creating an environment where inmates may engage in structured activities that build both practical skills and personal confidence.

Educational opportunities form the foundation of the facility's development-focused approach. Inmates often have access to education programs that may range from basic literacy instruction to more advanced academic coursework. College correspondence courses are typically available for those seeking higher education, allowing participants to work toward degrees while incarcerated. In addition to this academic focus, vocational education services may include specialized training in trades such as welding, providing inmates with marketable skills that can support successful reintegration into the workforce upon release.

Support services play a crucial role in preparing inmates for their eventual return to the community. The facility may offer a prisoner reentry initiative that typically focuses on practical preparation for release, including assistance with housing, employment planning, and community resource connections. These services often work in conjunction with therapeutic services that address underlying issues contributing to criminal behavior. Through this comprehensive approach, inmates may develop the tools and mindset necessary for sustained positive change, both during their incarceration and beyond.

Daily Life & Visitation

The concrete walls and steel doors of the housing units create a structured environment where every aspect of daily life follows established routines. Inmates at Gogebic County Sheriff currently wake to scheduled counts and meal times that continue throughout each day. The facility typically operates on a regimented schedule that provides predictability, with inmates generally moving between housing areas, common spaces, and program locations according to set timeframes.

Living accommodations usually consist of shared cells or dormitory-style housing units, where inmates adapt by establishing personal routines within the limited space available. Each housing area typically includes basic furnishings and storage for approved personal property. Meals are generally served in designated dining areas at scheduled times, with inmates often having opportunities to purchase additional items through the commissary system. Despite this structured environment, inmates may have access to recreational activities and exercise periods that provide physical outlets and social interaction opportunities.

In addition to this basic routine, the facility often provides work assignments that give inmates responsibility and help maintain facility operations. Programming schedules may include educational opportunities, counseling sessions, or other structured activities designed to support rehabilitation goals. Family connections continue through scheduled visitation periods and phone calls, which typically follow established guidelines and time restrictions. These communication opportunities provide important emotional support and help inmates maintain relationships with loved ones during their incarceration period.