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 Ingham County Sheriff's Office.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

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

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

   Mailing address:

   Ingham County Sheriff's Office
   630 N Cedar St
   Mason, MI 48854
   Phone: (517) 676-2431

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Saturday: Closed
   • Sunday: Closed

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

   Visiting hours at Ingham 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 (517) 676-2431 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 Ingham 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 Ingham County Sheriff's Office for their specific mail policies.

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

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

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Ingham 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 Ingham 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 Ingham 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 Ingham 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 rehabilitation form the cornerstone of the comprehensive services typically available at Clinton County Jail in Michigan. The facility often emphasizes a holistic approach to inmate development, recognizing that meaningful change requires addressing multiple aspects of an individual's life. Through carefully structured programming, inmates may access resources designed to build essential life skills, address underlying challenges, and prepare for successful community reintegration.

Educational opportunities frequently serve as a foundation for personal transformation within the facility. Inmates may participate in high school diploma programs that provide pathways to completing their secondary education. Vocational education services often focus on developing practical, marketable skills that can lead to employment opportunities upon release. In addition to this, college correspondence courses may be available for those seeking to pursue higher education goals, allowing participants to work toward academic advancement during their incarceration.

Support services and therapeutic interventions typically complement the educational offerings to address the complex needs of the inmate population. Mental health counseling services may provide crucial support for individuals dealing with psychological challenges, substance abuse issues, or trauma-related concerns. The prisoner reentry initiative often focuses on preparing inmates for the transition back to community life through practical planning and resource connections. In addition to this, building maintenance programs may offer inmates opportunities to develop valuable trade skills while contributing to facility operations, creating a sense of purpose and responsibility that supports personal development goals.

Daily Life & Visitation

The housing units at Clinton County Jail feature a structured environment where inmates navigate shared living spaces and established routines. Life currently revolves around predetermined schedules that help maintain order within the facility. The day typically begins early with headcounts and continues through structured meal times, programming periods, and designated recreation hours.

Living accommodations generally consist of dormitory-style housing or individual cells, depending on classification levels and available space. Inmates usually share common areas including dayrooms where they may watch television, play games, or socialize during approved hours. Meals are typically served in designated dining areas at scheduled times, with the facility providing three meals daily that meet basic nutritional requirements. Personal property is generally limited to approved items, and inmates may access commissary services to purchase additional necessities and snacks.

In addition to this basic structure, the facility typically offers various programs and activities designed to provide constructive use of time. Work assignments may include kitchen duties, cleaning responsibilities, or maintenance tasks that help operate the facility. Recreation opportunities often include access to outdoor areas when weather permits, along with indoor activities and exercise options. Despite this structured environment, inmates can usually maintain family connections through scheduled visitation periods and telephone privileges. Mail correspondence continues to serve as an important communication method, helping inmates stay connected with their support systems while adapting to the realities of incarceration.