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 Jim Rudd Unit.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Jim Rudd Unit 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 Jim Rudd Unit.

Frequently asked questions about Jim Rudd Unit

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 Jim Rudd Unit.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Jim Rudd Unit?

   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 Jim Rudd Unit?

   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 Jim Rudd Unit. 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 Jim Rudd Unit. 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 Jim Rudd Unit?

   Mailing address:

   Jim Rudd Unit
   2004 Lamesa Hwy
   Brownfield, TX 79316
   Phone: (806) 637-4470

5. What are the visiting hours at Jim Rudd Unit?

   Visiting hours at Jim Rudd Unit 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 (806) 637-4470 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 Jim Rudd Unit?

   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 Jim Rudd Unit for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Jim Rudd Unit?

   You can send money to an inmate at Jim Rudd Unit 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 Jim Rudd Unit?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Jim Rudd Unit, 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 Jim Rudd Unit?

   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 Jim Rudd Unit 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 Jim Rudd Unit, 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

As a transfer facility within the Texas Department of Criminal Justice system, the Jim Rudd Unit in Brownfield typically serves as an important processing center for male inmates moving between different facilities throughout the state. While specific program details are not extensively documented, transfer facilities like this one generally provide essential transitional services to help maintain continuity of care and programming during inmate relocations.

The facility may offer basic educational services and counseling programs to support inmates during their stay, which can vary in duration depending on transfer logistics and individual circumstances. Given its role in the TDCJ system, the unit likely provides medical and mental health assessments, classification reviews, and administrative processing services. Inmates may have access to religious services, recreational activities, and library resources during their time at the facility.

As a G1 and G2 security level institution with a capacity of 612 male inmates, the Jim Rudd Unit typically focuses on maintaining security protocols while ensuring inmates receive necessary services during the transfer process. The facility may coordinate with other TDCJ units to ensure that ongoing educational programs, vocational training, or treatment services are properly documented and continued at inmates' destination facilities, helping to maintain program continuity throughout the correctional system.

Daily Life & Visitation

The Texas Department of Criminal Justice operates the Jim Rudd Unit as a transfer facility in Brownfield, housing up to 612 male inmates across G1 and G2 security classifications since its opening in March 1995. Located on Lamesa Highway in Terry County, this state prison typically maintains structured daily schedules that begin early in the morning with count procedures and meal service. Inmates generally follow regimented routines that may include work assignments, educational programming, and recreational periods, though specific activities often depend on individual security levels and facility needs.

Visitation at Texas state facilities like Jim Rudd Unit typically occurs on designated days and times, with family members and approved visitors required to follow established procedures for scheduling and security screening. The facility likely offers standard communication options such as monitored phone calls and correspondence, helping inmates maintain connections with their support networks. Given its designation as a transfer facility, some inmates may experience shorter stays while being processed for placement at other TDCJ units.

Living accommodations at the Jim Rudd Unit generally consist of standard correctional housing appropriate for the facility's security classifications, with inmates typically housed in cells or dormitory-style arrangements depending on their custody level. The facility may offer basic amenities such as a commissary, library services, and recreational opportunities within the constraints of security requirements. As with most Texas correctional facilities, daily operations emphasize safety, security, and adherence to established institutional procedures while providing opportunities for inmates to participate in programs that may support their eventual reintegration into the community.