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 Karnes County Correctional Center.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Karnes County Correctional 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 Karnes County Correctional Center.

Frequently asked questions about Karnes County Correctional 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 Karnes County Correctional Center.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Karnes County Correctional 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 Karnes County Correctional 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 Karnes County Correctional 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 Karnes County Correctional 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 Karnes County Correctional Center?

   Mailing address:

   Karnes County Correctional Center
   810 Commerce St
   Karnes City, TX 78118
   Phone: (830) 780-3525

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Saturday: Closed
   • Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

5. What are the visiting hours at Karnes County Correctional Center?

   Visiting hours at Karnes County Correctional 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 (830) 780-3525 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 Karnes County Correctional 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 Karnes County Correctional Center for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Karnes County Correctional Center?

   You can send money to an inmate at Karnes County Correctional 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 Karnes County Correctional Center?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Karnes County Correctional 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 Karnes County Correctional 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 Karnes County Correctional 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 Karnes County Correctional 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

Educational advancement through specialized instruction forms the cornerstone of rehabilitative initiatives at Karnes County Detention, with comprehensive support systems designed to address diverse learning needs and developmental challenges. The facility's approach emphasizes individualized assessment and targeted intervention, recognizing that meaningful transformation often begins with addressing educational deficits that may have contributed to an individual's involvement in the justice system. Through carefully structured programming, residents gain access to academic resources that may have previously been unavailable, creating pathways toward personal growth and successful community reintegration.

Special education services typically provide tailored instruction for residents with documented learning disabilities or developmental needs, while vocational training initiatives may deliver hands-on skill development in various trade areas. These educational components often include distance learning opportunities that allow residents to pursue coursework and certifications remotely, expanding access to higher education and professional development. The vocational programming frequently encompasses practical training that aligns with regional employment opportunities, ensuring that residents develop marketable skills that translate directly to post-release employment prospects.

Moreover, comprehensive support services address the multifaceted nature of rehabilitation through work programs that instill discipline and responsibility while providing practical experience. Faith-based initiatives often serve as sources of spiritual guidance and community connection, complementing secular programming with values-based support systems. Wellness programs typically focus on physical and mental health maintenance, while victim awareness components encourage residents to understand the broader impact of their actions and develop empathy. These interconnected support services create a holistic environment where residents may engage with multiple pathways toward personal accountability and positive behavioral change.

Daily Life & Visitation

The predictable rhythm of wake-up calls, scheduled meals, and structured activities delivers a framework that many residents find grounding during their time at the facility. Today typically begins with early morning routines, followed by breakfast service in designated dining areas, and then transitions into work assignments or programming activities that consistently occupy the daylight hours. This structured approach generally helps residents maintain a sense of normalcy and purpose, with each day following familiar patterns that reduce uncertainty and provide clear expectations.

Living accommodations at Karnes County Detention typically consist of housing units designed to accommodate multiple residents, with basic furnishings including beds, storage areas, and shared bathroom facilities. Residents usually have access to personal property within established guidelines, and may utilize commissary services to purchase approved items such as snacks, hygiene products, and writing materials. Moreover, the dining arrangements generally feature meals served at scheduled times in common areas, with menus that aim to meet basic nutritional requirements while accommodating various dietary needs and restrictions when possible.

The facility typically offers recreational opportunities that may include outdoor exercise periods, television viewing in common areas, and access to reading materials or educational programming. Whereas daily routines provide structure, visitation policies generally allow residents to maintain connections with family members and approved visitors during designated hours, often supplemented by telephone privileges and mail correspondence. Work assignments within the facility commonly include kitchen duties, maintenance tasks, and cleaning responsibilities that help residents contribute to daily operations while developing skills and maintaining productive routines throughout their stay.