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 Independence County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Independence County Jail 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 Independence County Jail.

Frequently asked questions about Independence County Jail

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 Independence County Jail.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Independence County Jail?

   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 Independence County Jail?

   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 Independence County Jail. 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 Independence County Jail. 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 Independence County Jail?

   Mailing address:

   Independence County Jail
   569 W Main St
   Batesville, AR 72501
   Phone: (870) 612-6880

5. What are the visiting hours at Independence County Jail?

   Visiting hours at Independence County Jail 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) 612-6880 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 Independence County Jail?

   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 Independence County Jail for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Independence County Jail?

   You can send money to an inmate at Independence County Jail 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 Independence County Jail?

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

   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 Independence County Jail 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 Independence County Jail, 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

Comprehensive support services form the foundation of rehabilitation efforts, helping the population develop essential life skills and maintain meaningful connections during their time at the facility. These programs typically focus on addressing individual needs while preparing participants for successful community reintegration. The facility often emphasizes practical skill development alongside personal growth opportunities that may strengthen family relationships and spiritual well-being.

Educational and vocational programs provide the population with valuable career preparation opportunities. Vocational education courses may supply hands-on training in various trades, while commercial driving (CDL) preparation often helps participants pursue transportation industry careers upon release. Additionally, agriculture programs typically offer both educational value and practical work experience, teaching sustainable farming practices and land management skills that can translate into employment opportunities.

Support services encompass a range of therapeutic and enrichment activities designed to address personal development needs. Faith-based services often provide spiritual guidance and community support for those seeking religious connection during their incarceration. Arts and crafts programs may supply creative outlets that help the population develop new hobbies while building confidence and self-expression skills. These supportive programs typically work together to create a comprehensive approach to rehabilitation that addresses both practical and emotional needs of participants.

Daily Life & Visitation

Structured schedules and clear protocols shape every aspect of the experience for the population at Independence County Jail, where administrative oversight actively maintains order through established routines. At present, daily life follows a predictable pattern that typically begins with early morning counts and continues through scheduled meal times, work assignments, and recreational periods. The facility actively manages movement between different areas through controlled transitions that help maintain security while allowing access to various services and programs.

Housing arrangements generally place the population in dormitory-style units or individual cells, depending on classification levels and available space. Living accommodations typically include basic furnishings and personal storage areas where residents may keep approved items from commissary purchases or family contributions. Additionally, the facility usually provides bedding, hygiene supplies, and uniforms, while personal property policies generally allow limited personal items that meet security requirements.

Programming schedules supply structure through various activities that may include educational opportunities, substance abuse counseling, and religious services. Recreation time typically offers access to common areas, television viewing, and limited exercise opportunities when space and staffing permit. While visitation policies generally allow scheduled visits from family members, communication options usually include monitored phone calls and correspondence that follows facility guidelines. Work assignments within the facility often provide the population with opportunities to assist in kitchen operations, maintenance duties, or cleaning responsibilities, which may offer small wages or commissary credits to help with personal needs.