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 Hempstead County Sheriff's Office.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

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

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

   Mailing address:

   Hempstead County Sheriff's Office
   312 S Washington St
   Hope, AR 71801
   Phone: (870) 777-6727

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

   Visiting hours at Hempstead 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 (870) 777-6727 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 Hempstead 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 Hempstead County Sheriff's Office for their specific mail policies.

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

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

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

Personal growth and skill development form the foundation of rehabilitation services at Hempstead County Jail in Arkansas. The facility typically emphasizes building practical abilities that inmates can apply both during incarceration and after release. This approach recognizes that meaningful change often occurs through hands-on learning experiences and structured support systems.

Educational and vocational services may provide inmates with valuable career preparation opportunities. Vocational education programs often focus on developing marketable skills in various trades and industries. The facility may offer commercial driving (CDL) training, which can lead to employment opportunities in transportation and logistics fields. Furthermore, landscaping programs typically teach inmates about grounds maintenance, plant care, and outdoor project management skills that transfer well to civilian employment.

Support services often include faith-based programs that address spiritual and emotional development needs. Agriculture programs may provide hands-on experience with farming techniques and food production methods. The facility typically offers family reunification services designed to strengthen relationships and communication between inmates and their loved ones. Recycling programs often teach environmental responsibility while developing work habits and teamwork skills. These diverse services work together to address multiple aspects of personal development and prepare inmates for successful community reintegration.

Daily Life & Visitation

Behind the concrete walls and steel doors, the physical environment at Hempstead County Jail shapes how inmates navigate their daily existence. The facility's housing units typically consist of shared cells or dormitory-style accommodations, where inmates now adapt to limited personal space and structured movement throughout the building. Inmates regularly follow established routines that provide stability within the controlled environment.

Living accommodations generally include basic furnishings and bedding, with inmates often sharing sleeping quarters with others. The dining area serves meals at designated times, typically providing three meals daily in a common space where inmates gather under supervision. Personal property remains limited to approved items, and commissary services may offer additional food items and personal care products for those with available funds.

Furthermore, the facility usually provides recreational opportunities that may include television viewing areas, outdoor exercise time when weather permits, and basic fitness equipment. Although movement remains restricted, inmates can typically participate in structured programming schedules that might include educational classes or religious services. Visitation policies generally allow family members to maintain contact through scheduled visits, while phone access and mail correspondence provide additional communication options. Work assignments within the facility often include kitchen duties, cleaning responsibilities, and maintenance tasks that help inmates contribute to daily operations while maintaining structure in their routine.