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 Harris County Sheriff's Office.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Harris 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 Harris County Sheriff's Office.

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

   Mailing address:

   Harris County Sheriff's Office
   9825 GA-116
   Hamilton, GA 31811
   Phone: (706) 628-4211

   Business hours:

   • Monday: Open 24 hours
   • Tuesday: Open 24 hours
   • Wednesday: Open 24 hours
   • Thursday: Open 24 hours
   • Friday: Open 24 hours
   • Saturday: Open 24 hours
   • Sunday: Open 24 hours

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

   Visiting hours at Harris 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 (706) 628-4211 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 Harris 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 Harris County Sheriff's Office for their specific mail policies.

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

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

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

Through comprehensive programming designed to address multiple aspects of personal development, Harris County Jail in Georgia demonstrates its commitment to supporting individuals during their incarceration. The facility’s approach recognizes that meaningful change often occurs when people have access to structured opportunities that build skills, strengthen relationships, and foster personal growth. These programs typically operate with the understanding that successful reintegration into the community requires preparation across educational, vocational, and personal dimensions.

Educational programs may supply foundational learning opportunities for participants seeking to advance their academic credentials or develop new knowledge areas. The facility often includes vocational training initiatives that focus on practical skills development, helping the population prepare for employment opportunities upon release. These programs typically emphasize hands-on learning experiences that may translate directly into job readiness skills, supporting individuals as they work toward economic stability and independence in their communities.

Furthermore, support services play a crucial role in addressing the emotional and spiritual needs of participants. Faith-based services often provide a foundation for personal reflection and community connection, while parenting classes may supply essential skills for maintaining and strengthening family relationships. Arts and crafts programs typically offer creative outlets that can reduce stress and provide therapeutic benefits, allowing the population to explore self-expression while developing new interests. These supportive programs often work together to create a comprehensive framework that addresses the diverse needs of individuals preparing for successful reintegration into their families and communities.

Daily Life & Visitation

Structured schedules and clear organizational protocols shape every aspect of life within the facility, creating predictable routines that the population follows regularly. Daily activities now revolve around predetermined timeframes that typically include meals, programming sessions, and recreational periods. The population generally begins each day with morning counts and meal service, followed by work assignments or educational programming depending on individual classifications. Security procedures regularly punctuate these activities, ensuring orderly transitions between different areas of the facility.

Housing units typically accommodate multiple residents in dormitory-style or cell-based arrangements, with personal property allowances that may include basic hygiene items and approved clothing. The population usually receives three meals daily in designated dining areas, with menu rotations that aim to provide adequate nutrition. Furthermore, commissary services generally allow residents to purchase additional food items and personal care products, though availability depends on individual account balances and facility policies.

Recreational opportunities often include access to outdoor exercise areas and indoor common spaces where the population can engage in physical activities or social interaction during designated periods. Although visitation schedules vary, family members typically have regular opportunities to maintain contact through scheduled visits and telephone privileges. Work assignments within the facility may include kitchen duties, maintenance tasks, or administrative support roles that supply structure to daily routines. Programming schedules usually encompass educational classes, substance abuse counseling, or vocational training sessions designed to support rehabilitation goals and maintain productive daily engagement for the population.