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 Jefferson County Prison.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Jefferson County Prison 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 Jefferson County Prison.

Frequently asked questions about Jefferson County Prison

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 Jefferson County Prison.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Jefferson County Prison?

   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 Jefferson County Prison?

   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 Jefferson County Prison. 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 Jefferson County Prison. 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 Jefferson County Prison?

   Mailing address:

   Jefferson County Prison
   1159 Clarks Mill Rd
   Louisville, GA 30434
   Phone: (478) 625-7230

5. What are the visiting hours at Jefferson County Prison?

   Visiting hours at Jefferson County Prison 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 (478) 625-7230 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 Jefferson County Prison?

   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 Jefferson County Prison for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Jefferson County Prison?

   You can send money to an inmate at Jefferson County Prison 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 Jefferson County Prison?

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

   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 Jefferson County Prison 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 Jefferson County Prison, 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

Educational opportunities form a cornerstone of programming at Jefferson County Correctional Institution, with inmates able to pursue their General Education Diploma through structured academic coursework. The facility’s vocational training programs provide hands-on experience in skilled trades including plumbing, welding, heavy equipment operation, and brick masonry, preparing participants for employment opportunities upon release. These practical skills align with the institution’s work detail operations, which support Jefferson County Government through county maintenance, construction projects, and waste management services.

Counseling services address both general mental health needs and substance abuse education, recognizing the complex challenges many inmates face. The facility typically may offer individual and group counseling sessions to help residents develop coping strategies and address underlying issues that may have contributed to their incarceration. Religious programming plays an active role in the institution’s rehabilitation approach, with various worship services, Bible study sessions, and choir participation providing spiritual support and community connection for interested inmates.

General recreation activities complement the structured programming, offering inmates opportunities for physical fitness and stress relief during their incarceration. The facility’s dormitory-style housing arrangement, with eight dormitories accommodating the population, may facilitate group programming and peer support networks. Additional services commonly found at Georgia correctional facilities may include library access, health and wellness education, and reentry planning assistance, though specific details about these programs would require confirmation from facility staff.

Daily Life & Visitation

The eight dormitories at Jefferson County Correctional Institution house up to many individuals in an open dormitory setting, where residents typically begin their days with early morning counts and meal service. Built in 1924 and renovated in 1990, the facility maintains a structured environment where many residents participate in work details supporting Jefferson County Government operations, including county maintenance, construction projects, and landfill duties. The dormitory-style housing allows for community interaction while maintaining security protocols typical of minimum and medium custody facilities.

Educational and vocational opportunities form a significant part of daily activities, with residents often attending General Education Diploma classes or participating in hands-on training programs such as plumbing, welding, heavy equipment operation, and brick masonry. These programs typically run during daytime hours and may provide valuable skills for post-release employment. The facility also offers substance abuse counseling and general counseling services, which residents may attend as part of their individual programming requirements.

Evenings and weekends usually include time for general recreation activities and various religious services, including worship services, Bible study, and choir participation. The facility’s five sick bays with ten beds ensure medical needs are addressed, while the 14 isolation and segregation rooms maintain security when necessary. Family connections are typically maintained through scheduled visitation periods and phone calls, though specific policies may vary and families should contact the facility directly for current visiting procedures and requirements.