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 Harford County Detention Center.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Harford County Detention Center 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 Harford County Detention Center.

Frequently asked questions about Harford County Detention Center

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 Harford County Detention Center.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Harford County Detention Center?

   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 Harford County Detention Center?

   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 Harford County Detention Center. 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 Harford County Detention Center. 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 Harford County Detention Center?

   Mailing address:

   Harford County Detention Center
   1030 Rock Spring Rd
   Bel Air, MD 21014
   Phone: (410) 638-3140

5. What are the visiting hours at Harford County Detention Center?

   Visiting hours at Harford County Detention Center 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 (410) 638-3140 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 Harford County Detention Center?

   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 Harford County Detention Center for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Harford County Detention Center?

   You can send money to an inmate at Harford County Detention Center 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 Harford County Detention Center?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Harford County Detention Center, 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 Harford County Detention Center?

   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 Harford County Detention Center 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 Harford County Detention Center, 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

Located in Bel Air, Maryland, the Harford County Detention Center operates under policies that follow the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) guidelines, demonstrating a commitment to maintaining safe and secure conditions for all individuals in custody. The facility provides victim services and maintains connections with the community through various notification systems, including VINE (Victim Information and Notification Everyday), which allows citizens to track inmate custody status and receive updates when changes occur.

While specific program details are not extensively outlined on the facility's website, Maryland detention centers typically offer educational opportunities that may include GED preparation, basic literacy programs, and vocational training designed to support successful reintegration into the community. The facility may also provide substance abuse counseling, mental health services, and life skills programs that help individuals address underlying issues and develop practical capabilities for their release. Religious services and library access are commonly available features that support personal growth and spiritual well-being during incarceration.

Given the facility's capacity and operational structure, Harford County Detention Center likely maintains medical services, classification processes, and various housing options to meet the diverse needs of its population. The center's approach to programming often includes collaboration with local organizations and agencies to provide comprehensive support services, though specific partnerships and detailed program schedules would need to be confirmed directly with facility staff for the most current and accurate information.

Daily Life & Visitation

The Harford County Detention Center, located on Rock Spring Road in Bel Air, operates as a 762-bed facility that has evolved significantly since its original 100-bed capacity in 1973. Inmates typically begin each day with early morning headcounts and meal service, followed by structured programming that may include work assignments, educational opportunities, or recreational activities depending on their housing classification. The facility's multiple expansions over the decades have created different housing units that accommodate various security levels and special populations, with 33 additional beds reserved specifically for classification, isolation, and medical purposes.

Communication with family and friends often centers around the facility's adherence to standard correctional protocols, though specific visitation schedules and phone policies would need to be confirmed directly with the detention center. The facility follows Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) guidelines, which influences daily operations and helps ensure inmate safety throughout their stay. Families can stay informed about their loved one's custody status through the VINE system (Victim Information and Notification Everyday), which provides telephone and internet-based updates when an inmate's status changes.

Daily routines at the detention center typically include scheduled meal times, recreation periods, and potential participation in programs designed to support rehabilitation and preparation for release. The facility's location in Harford County means inmates may have access to various support services, though the specific availability of educational, vocational, or counseling programs would depend on current staffing and resources. Those with questions about daily schedules, visitation procedures, or specific services should contact the facility directly at 410-638-3140 for the most current information.