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 Parish Correctional.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Jefferson Parish 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 Jefferson Parish Correctional.

Frequently asked questions about Jefferson Parish 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 Jefferson Parish Correctional.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Jefferson Parish 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 Jefferson Parish 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 Jefferson Parish 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 Jefferson Parish 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 Jefferson Parish Correctional?

   Mailing address:

   Jefferson Parish Correctional
   100 Dolhonde St
   Gretna, LA 70053
   Phone: (504) 368-5360

   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 Jefferson Parish Correctional?

   Visiting hours at Jefferson Parish 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 (504) 368-5360 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 Parish 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 Jefferson Parish Correctional for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Jefferson Parish Correctional?

   You can send money to an inmate at Jefferson Parish 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 Jefferson Parish Correctional?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Jefferson Parish 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 Jefferson Parish 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 Jefferson Parish 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 Jefferson Parish 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 Jefferson Parish Correctional Center operates as a pre-trial detention facility serving nearly many individuals, with programs designed to address the comprehensive needs of those awaiting trial. Given its role as a pre-trial facility administered by the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, the center typically focuses on maintaining safety and security while providing essential services to detainees during their stay.

Educational and support services at JPCC may include basic literacy programs, GED preparation, and life skills training to help individuals prepare for their eventual release or court proceedings. The facility often provides access to legal resources and may offer counseling services to address substance abuse issues and mental health needs. Medical care is typically available through on-site healthcare staff, ensuring that detainees receive necessary treatment during their time at the facility. Religious services and chaplaincy programs are commonly offered to provide spiritual support to those who seek it.

Additional services may include vocational training opportunities, work programs within the facility, and visitation services that help maintain family connections during the pre-trial period. The center likely provides access to commissary services, telephone communications, and mail services to help detainees stay connected with their support networks. Given the facility’s location in Gretna and its administration by the JPSO, programming efforts often emphasize preparing individuals for successful reintegration into the Jefferson Parish community while ensuring public safety remains the primary concern.

Daily Life & Visitation

The Jefferson Parish Correctional Center operates under the administration of the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, housing nearly many individuals primarily awaiting trial in Gretna, Louisiana. Located at 100 Dolhonde Street, the facility maintains structured operational hours from Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with closures on holidays that may affect certain services and administrative functions.

As a pre-trial detention facility, JPCC typically maintains daily routines designed around court schedules and legal proceedings. Residents often begin their days early with count procedures and meal service, followed by opportunities for legal consultations, medical appointments, and communication with family members. The facility may offer various programs and activities throughout the day, though specific schedules often depend on security levels and individual case requirements. Educational services, recreational time, and work assignments are commonly integrated into daily operations at similar Louisiana correctional facilities.

Family connections remain an important aspect of daily life, with the facility providing online inmate search capabilities and payment systems to help families stay connected with their loved ones. Communication options may include phone calls, video visits, and correspondence, though specific policies and schedules would need to be confirmed directly with the facility. The correctional center’s focus on pre-trial detention means that many residents are actively working with legal counsel and preparing for upcoming court appearances, which often influences the structure and timing of daily activities and services.