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 Herkimer County Correctional.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Herkimer County Correctional 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 Herkimer County Correctional.

Frequently asked questions about Herkimer County Correctional

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 Herkimer County Correctional.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Herkimer County Correctional?

   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 Herkimer County Correctional?

   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 Herkimer County Correctional. 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 Herkimer County Correctional. 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 Herkimer County Correctional?

   Mailing address:

   Herkimer County Correctional
   320 N Washington St
   Herkimer, NY 13350
   Phone: (315) 867-1252

   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 Herkimer County Correctional?

   Visiting hours at Herkimer County Correctional 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 (315) 867-1252 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 Herkimer County Correctional?

   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 Herkimer County Correctional for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Herkimer County Correctional?

   You can send money to an inmate at Herkimer County Correctional 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 Herkimer County Correctional?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Herkimer County Correctional, 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 Herkimer County Correctional?

   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 Herkimer County Correctional 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 Herkimer County Correctional, 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 Herkimer County Correctional Facility emphasizes rehabilitation through structured programming designed to help incarcerated individuals better themselves during their time in custody. Located at 711 Middleville Road in Herkimer, this modern 74,000-square-foot facility incorporates innovative correction technology to create a safer environment where meaningful programs can flourish. The facility's design, featuring three housing pods, medical suite, and dedicated program spaces, supports a comprehensive approach to preparing individuals for successful reintegration into the community.

While specific program details may vary, the facility typically offers educational opportunities that may include adult basic education, GED preparation, and literacy programs to help individuals develop essential academic skills. Vocational training programs often focus on practical skills such as food service, maintenance, and other trades that can provide employment opportunities upon release. The facility may also provide substance abuse counseling, mental health services, and life skills programming to address underlying issues that contribute to criminal behavior. Religious services and chaplaincy programs are commonly available to support spiritual needs and personal growth.

The facility maintains strong community connections through its visitation program, allowing two 60-minute visits per week on Wednesdays and Sundays, which helps preserve family bonds crucial for successful reentry. Additional support services may include pre-release planning, job placement assistance, and connections to community resources. The medical suite ensures that healthcare needs are addressed, while the modern facility design promotes both security and a therapeutic environment conducive to positive behavioral change and personal development.

Daily Life & Visitation

The Herkimer County Correctional Facility's 74,000 square foot modern design creates a structured environment across three housing units, where incarcerated individuals follow established routines within a secure setting. Located at 711 Middleville Road in Herkimer, this facility with a maximum capacity of 130 individuals emphasizes both security and rehabilitation opportunities that were previously unavailable in the older facility.

Family connections remain a priority through the facility's visitation program, which allows each individual two 60-minute visits per week on Wednesdays and Sundays. Visits typically accommodate up to two visitors plus one child under two years old, with all visitors ages 17 and under requiring accompaniment by a parent or legal guardian. The facility's modern design includes a dedicated visiting area where families can maintain important relationships during incarceration. All visitors must provide proper identification and submit to electronic searches, with strict guidelines prohibiting most personal items except essential items like wedding bands, prescription eyewear, and medical alert bracelets.

Throughout the facility's housing pods, individuals may participate in various programs designed for self-improvement, though specific program schedules would typically be coordinated with the facility's administration. The modern kitchen facilities likely provide regular meal service, while the medical suite ensures healthcare needs are addressed. The facility's use of current correctional technology and innovations helps maintain a safe environment for both staff and incarcerated individuals, supporting the goal of providing humane conditions while serving court-ordered sentences or detention periods.