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 Gonzales County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Gonzales County 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 Gonzales County Jail.

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

   Mailing address:

   Gonzales County Jail
   1713 E Sarah DeWitt Dr
   Gonzales, TX 78629
   Phone: (830) 672-6362

5. What are the visiting hours at Gonzales County Jail?

   Visiting hours at Gonzales County 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 (830) 672-6362 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 Gonzales County 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 Gonzales County Jail for their specific mail policies.

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

   You can send money to an inmate at Gonzales County 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 Gonzales County Jail?

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

The Gonzales County Jail operates with a fundamental commitment to treating individuals with dignity and respect while helping them learn accountability for their actions. This philosophy guides the facility's approach to making productive use of inmates' time through various programming initiatives designed to support both pretrial detainees and sentenced individuals during their stay.

The facility typically provides educational opportunities that may include GED preparation classes and basic literacy programs to help inmates develop essential academic skills. Vocational training programs often focus on practical skills such as maintenance, food service, and other job-related competencies that can benefit individuals upon release. Counseling services are commonly available to address substance abuse issues, anger management, and other behavioral concerns, while religious services and spiritual counseling may offer additional support for those seeking faith-based guidance during their incarceration.

Given the diverse population the jail serves - including those awaiting trial, individuals serving county sentences, and those awaiting transfer to state facilities - programming efforts often emphasize life skills development and reentry preparation. Work programs within the facility may provide opportunities for inmates to gain experience in laundry operations, kitchen duties, and facility maintenance while earning modest wages. Mental health services and medical care are typically coordinated to ensure inmates receive appropriate treatment, and family communication is supported through structured visitation schedules and phone privileges to help maintain important community connections during incarceration.

Daily Life & Visitation

The Gonzales County Jail operates with a clear mission to provide a safe, secure facility where individuals are treated with dignity and respect while learning accountability for their actions. Located at 1713 E Sarah DeWitt Dr in Gonzales, Texas, the facility houses a diverse population including those awaiting trial, individuals serving county sentences, and those held on various warrants or probation violations. The jail's staff, consisting of deputies and civilian personnel, work to make productive use of inmates' time while maintaining the security necessary for housing individuals accused of all levels of charges.

Inmates at the facility typically follow structured daily routines that may include scheduled meal times, recreation periods, and educational or work programs designed to promote accountability and personal development. The jail maintains specific visitation schedules and rules to allow inmates to maintain connections with family and friends, which can be accessed by contacting the facility at (830) 672-6362. Visitors can also obtain information about inmate status, booking details, and bond information through this number. The facility recognizes the important distinction between pretrial confinement, which serves to ensure court appearances rather than as punishment, and sentenced inmates who are serving time as consequence for their offenses.

Communication with the outside world is facilitated through the jail's established procedures, and families can contribute to inmate funds to help with commissary purchases and other approved expenses. The Gonzales County Sheriff's Office emphasizes that while maintaining security remains paramount, the facility operates with the understanding that creating a safe environment benefits both inmates and staff, supporting the broader goal of preparing individuals for their eventual return to the community.