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 Hampden County Sheriff's Department.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Hampden County Sheriff's Department

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 Hampden County Sheriff's Department.

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

   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 Hampden County Sheriff's Department?

   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 Hampden County Sheriff's Department. 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 Hampden County Sheriff's Department. 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 Hampden County Sheriff's Department?

   Mailing address:

   Hampden County Sheriff's Department
   627 Randall Rd
   Ludlow, MA 01056
   Phone: (413) 858-0000

5. What are the visiting hours at Hampden County Sheriff's Department?

   Visiting hours at Hampden County Sheriff's Department 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 (413) 858-0000 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 Hampden County Sheriff's Department?

   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 Hampden County Sheriff's Department for their specific mail policies.

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

   You can send money to an inmate at Hampden County Sheriff's Department 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 Hampden County Sheriff's Department?

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

   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 Hampden County Sheriff's Department 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 Hampden County Sheriff's Department, 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 Hampden County Sheriff's Department provides a range of programs and services aimed at supporting individuals in both correctional and community settings. One of the key programs they offer is the Correctional Alternatives and Response to Enforcement (CARE) program, designed to reduce recidivism rates and offer alternatives to incarceration for nonviolent offenders. Participants work in small groups to address the root causes of their behavior and develop strategies to lead a successful life post-release. This program includes job-readiness training, counseling, and housing services.

For those who are currently incarcerated, the Hampden County Sheriff's Department provides a range of educational and therapeutic programs designed to promote personal growth and development. They offer academic and vocational programs, including classes in computer skills, culinary arts, and cosmetology. The department also offers substance abuse treatment and counseling services, as well as mental health treatment for those with diagnosed psychiatric conditions.

Additionally, the department has a Victim Services Unit, which provides support for victims of crime and their families. This includes assistance with obtaining protective orders, navigating court processes, and referrals to community resources like therapists and medical care systems. The department also collects data and conducts research related to crime and victimization, identifying trends and using this data to evaluate and improve programming and services.

Overall, the Hampden County Sheriff's Department offers a comprehensive range of services for incarcerated individuals and their families, as well as programs aimed at reducing community violence and promoting public safety. Through thoughtful programming and community engagement, they align their work with the ultimate goal of creating safe, healthy communities for all.

Daily Life & Visitation

Daily life for inmates at Hampden County Sheriff's Department can vary greatly depending on the particular facility they are housed in and their individual circumstances. Generally speaking, however, inmates are confined to their cells for a majority of the day and are only allowed out for limited periods of time for meals, recreation, and other sanctioned activities.

Inmates are often housed in cells with one or more other inmates and are required to adhere to strict rules and a regimented schedule. This can include designated periods of time for sleeping, eating, personal hygiene, exercise, and educational or vocational programs. Any deviation from the schedule or breaking of the rules can result in disciplinary action, such as loss of privileges or even solitary confinement.

While some facilities at Hampden County Sheriff's Department offer programming such as drug treatment and educational courses, the overall atmosphere is one of confinement and restriction. Inmates typically have limited access to technology, communication with loved ones, and personal privacy. As a result, mental health concerns and issues with maintaining social connections can be significant challenges for those serving time.

Despite these many obstacles, some inmates at Hampden County Sheriff's Department have reported experiencing positive personal growth during their incarceration, thanks in part to opportunities for treatment and rehabilitation. Additionally, some inmates participate in programs that allow them to give back to their community through volunteer work or other community service initiatives. However, the reality of day-to-day life in a correctional facility is often difficult and isolating, making rehabilitation a challenging but essential goal for those working within the system.