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 Hale County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Hale 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 Hale County Jail.

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

   Mailing address:

   Hale County Jail
   1900 S Columbia
   Plainview, TX 79072
   Phone: (806) 293-5377

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

   Visiting hours at Hale 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 (806) 293-5377 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 Hale 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 Hale County Jail for their specific mail policies.

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

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

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

Through a comprehensive framework of supportive services, the population at Hale County Jail receives assistance designed to address both immediate needs and long-term reintegration goals. The facility's approach recognizes that meaningful change occurs when individuals have access to structured opportunities that build practical skills while fostering personal development. This philosophy underlies various programs that emphasize community connection and preparation for successful transition back into society.

Educational and vocational training initiatives typically form the cornerstone of skill-building efforts within the facility. The population may participate in vocational training programs that focus on developing marketable skills relevant to local employment opportunities. These programs often include hands-on instruction that allows participants to gain practical experience while working toward recognized certifications. Also, work programs provide structured environments where individuals can develop job readiness skills, maintain productive routines, and contribute meaningfully to facility operations while earning modest compensation that may support family connections or personal needs.

Support services extend beyond skill development to encompass holistic approaches that address spiritual, emotional, and practical reintegration concerns. Faith-based initiatives typically offer chaplaincy services, religious study groups, and spiritual counseling that provide comfort and guidance to those seeking such support. Also, prison industries programs may supply opportunities for participants to engage in productive work that develops both technical skills and work ethic. Reentry preparation services often include case management, resource coordination, and planning assistance that help individuals navigate the transition process, connect with community services, and maintain family relationships that are crucial for successful reintegration into their communities.

Daily Life & Visitation

The carefully orchestrated framework of institutional protocols governs every aspect of existence within the facility, creating a predictable environment where the population can now navigate their daily experiences with clear expectations. Structured schedules regularly guide residents through essential activities, beginning with morning wake-up calls that initiate a series of coordinated movements throughout the housing units. The population typically follows established routines for meals, programming, and recreation that supply stability and order to each day, with staff members overseeing these transitions to ensure smooth operations across all areas of the facility.

Housing arrangements generally place residents in dormitory-style accommodations or individual cells, depending on classification levels and available space within the facility. The population typically shares common areas for dining, where meals are served at designated times in a cafeteria setting that accommodates multiple shifts to manage the flow of residents efficiently. Personal property allowances usually include basic hygiene items and a limited selection of approved personal belongings, while commissary services may provide additional items for purchase. Also, laundry facilities operate on scheduled days, allowing residents to maintain their clothing and bedding according to established facility protocols.

Structured programming schedules supply the population with various opportunities for personal development, including educational classes, vocational training, and counseling sessions that typically occur during designated hours throughout the week. Recreation time generally includes access to outdoor areas for exercise and indoor activities such as television viewing or reading in common spaces. However, these activities must align with security requirements and facility capacity. Family connections remain vital through scheduled visitation periods and telephone privileges, which usually operate within specific timeframes and follow established guidelines. Work assignments within the facility may include kitchen duties, maintenance tasks, or cleaning responsibilities that help residents contribute to daily operations while developing job skills.