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 John J. Benoit Detention Center.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at John J. Benoit Detention Center 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 John J. Benoit Detention Center.

Frequently asked questions about John J. Benoit Detention Center

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 John J. Benoit Detention Center.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to John J. Benoit Detention Center?

   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 John J. Benoit Detention Center?

   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 John J. Benoit Detention Center. 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 John J. Benoit Detention Center. 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 John J. Benoit Detention Center?

   Mailing address:

   John J. Benoit Detention Center
   82675 CA-111
   Indio, CA 92201
   Phone: (760) 863-8252

   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 John J. Benoit Detention Center?

   Visiting hours at John J. Benoit Detention Center 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 (760) 863-8252 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 John J. Benoit Detention Center?

   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 John J. Benoit Detention Center for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at John J. Benoit Detention Center?

   You can send money to an inmate at John J. Benoit Detention Center 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 John J. Benoit Detention Center?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At John J. Benoit Detention Center, 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 John J. Benoit Detention Center?

   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 John J. Benoit Detention Center 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 John J. Benoit Detention Center, 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 John J. Benoit Detention Center in Indio, California operates under the Riverside County Sheriff's Department with a structured approach to inmate management and visitor services. Located on State Highway 111, the facility maintains specific protocols for visitation that reflect its commitment to both security and family connection, allowing inmates up to two visits per week with proper scheduling and identification requirements.

While the facility's website primarily focuses on visitation procedures and operational details, correctional facilities in California typically provide various rehabilitative services to support inmate reintegration. The John J. Benoit Detention Center may offer educational programs such as GED preparation and basic literacy courses, which are common components of correctional programming. Vocational training opportunities might include job readiness workshops, computer skills development, and certification programs in trades that align with local employment opportunities in the Coachella Valley region.

Counseling and support services often form a crucial part of detention center operations, and this facility may provide substance abuse counseling, mental health services, and anger management programs. Religious services and chaplaincy programs are typically available to inmates seeking spiritual guidance, while library services and recreational activities may help maintain inmates' well-being during their stay. The facility likely coordinates with community organizations and service providers to ensure continuity of care and support for inmates preparing for release, though specific partnerships and program details would require direct contact with facility administration for confirmation.

Daily Life & Visitation

**Life Behind the Walls: Understanding Daily Routines at John J. Benoit Detention Center**

Located on State Highway 111 in Indio, the John J. Benoit Detention Center operates under the supervision of Correctional Captain Deanna Pecoraro and maintains structured daily routines typical of California correctional facilities. Inmates typically begin their day with early morning counts and meal service, followed by work assignments, educational programs, or recreational activities depending on their classification level and facility needs. The center often provides opportunities for vocational training, library access, and religious services throughout the week, though specific programming may vary based on staffing and security requirements.

Family connections remain an important aspect of life at the facility, with visiting procedures carefully managed to ensure both security and meaningful contact. Inmates may receive up to two visits per week, with each session lasting approximately 45 minutes and accommodating up to two visitors per inmate. Those wishing to visit must call 760-863-8540 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. to schedule appointments one day in advance, and all visitors must present valid government identification while adhering to strict dress codes and conduct requirements. The facility maintains clear policies regarding contraband, searches, and visitor behavior to ensure the safety of all individuals within the correctional environment.

Throughout their stay, inmates typically follow structured schedules that may include meals at designated times, work details, educational classes, and recreational periods when available. The facility generally provides basic necessities such as meals, medical care, and housing while maintaining security protocols consistent with California correctional standards. Communication with family members often occurs through monitored phone calls and correspondence, helping inmates maintain important relationships during their incarceration period.