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 Howard County Sheriff's Office.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

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

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

   Mailing address:

   Howard County Sheriff's Office
   1800 W Markland Ave
   Kokomo, IN 46901
   Phone: (765) 457-1105

   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 Howard County Sheriff's Office?

   Visiting hours at Howard 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 (765) 457-1105 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 Howard 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 Howard County Sheriff's Office for their specific mail policies.

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

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

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

Support flows through multiple pathways at Howard County Jail, where various programs work together to address the diverse needs of the population. The facility's approach centers on building skills and connections that strengthen individuals during their time in custody and beyond. These programs typically focus on personal development, education, and preparing participants for successful community reintegration.

Educational programs may supply basic literacy instruction, GED preparation, and life skills training to help participants build foundational knowledge. Vocational training often includes hands-on learning opportunities that teach practical job skills relevant to local employment markets. These educational initiatives typically emphasize both academic achievement and practical application, giving the population tools they can use immediately upon release.

In addition to these foundational offerings, faith-based programs provide spiritual support and community connection for those who choose to participate. Transitional planning services often include assistance with housing, employment searches, and accessing community resources. Family reunification programs may supply structured opportunities for maintaining and rebuilding important relationships, recognizing that strong family connections typically support successful reentry outcomes.

Daily Life & Visitation

Structured schedules and established routines form the backbone of daily operations, with the population following organized patterns that supply predictability to institutional life. Residents now participate in regularly scheduled activities that include meal times, work assignments, and programming sessions designed to maintain order throughout the facility. Count procedures typically occur at designated intervals, ensuring accountability while allowing the population to engage in approved activities between these structured checkpoints.

Housing units generally accommodate multiple residents in dormitory-style or cell-based arrangements, with each area maintaining specific protocols for movement and daily activities. The population usually receives three meals per day in designated dining areas, with menus planned to meet basic nutritional requirements. Personal property allowances typically include essential items, while commissary services may offer additional purchases for those with available funds.

In addition to this basic structure, recreational opportunities often include access to television areas, library materials, and limited physical exercise spaces when available. Work assignments within the facility supply productive engagement for eligible residents, covering areas such as kitchen duties, cleaning, and general maintenance tasks. Despite this structured environment, the population typically maintains family connections through scheduled visitation periods and telephone privileges, allowing important relationships to continue during their time at the facility.