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 La Porte County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at La Porte County Jail 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 La Porte County Jail.

Frequently asked questions about La Porte County Jail

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 La Porte County Jail.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to La Porte County Jail?

   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 La Porte County Jail?

   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 La Porte County Jail. 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 La Porte County Jail. 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 La Porte County Jail?

   Mailing address:

   La Porte County Jail
   809 State St
   La Porte, IN 46350
   Phone: (219) 326-7700

5. What are the visiting hours at La Porte County Jail?

   Visiting hours at La Porte County Jail 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 (219) 326-7700 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 La Porte County Jail?

   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 La Porte County Jail for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at La Porte County Jail?

   You can send money to an inmate at La Porte County Jail 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 La Porte County Jail?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At La Porte County Jail, 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 La Porte County Jail?

   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 La Porte County Jail 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 La Porte County Jail, 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 La Porte County Jail has implemented comprehensive technological systems to enhance communication and information access for both inmates and their families. Through their Automated Information System (AIS), the facility provides 24/7 public access to essential inmate information, including charges, bonds, court dates, and release information. This system also facilitates crucial services such as commissary account management, mail guidelines, and telephone account funding, while inmates can access the same information directly from jail telephones at their convenience.

Beyond these technological resources, the facility typically may offer educational programming to support inmate development during incarceration. Many Indiana correctional facilities often provide GED preparation classes, basic literacy programs, and vocational training opportunities that help prepare individuals for successful reintegration. The jail may also coordinate with local educational institutions or community organizations to deliver these services, though specific partnerships would vary based on available resources and community connections.

Counseling and support services often represent another important component of programming at county-level facilities like La Porte County Jail. These may include substance abuse counseling, mental health support, and pre-release planning assistance to help inmates transition back into the community. The facility's focus on providing accessible information systems suggests a commitment to maintaining family connections and supporting inmates' preparation for release, which are recognized as important factors in reducing recidivism and promoting successful community reintegration.

Daily Life & Visitation

The La Porte County Jail's comprehensive information system provides inmates and their families with 24/7 access to essential details about charges, bonds, court dates, and release information through their JailTracker management software. This automated system allows visitors to check inmate status, visitation schedules, and commissary account information at any time of day, creating a more accessible environment for maintaining family connections during incarceration.

Inmates at the facility typically follow structured daily routines that may include scheduled meal times, recreation periods, and access to jail telephones where they can retrieve the same information available to the public through the automated system. The jail's communication infrastructure supports various ways for families to stay connected, including the ability to add money to inmates' telephone accounts and leave short voicemail messages. Commissary services are available, allowing family members to deposit funds into inmates' accounts for personal items and necessities.

The facility operates with modern jail management technology that streamlines many administrative processes, potentially allowing staff to focus more on security and inmate welfare rather than routine information requests. Inmates may have access to educational programs, recreational activities, and medical services typical of county facilities in Indiana. The jail maintains clear guidelines for mail correspondence, visitation procedures, and prescription medication drop-off, ensuring that families understand the policies while supporting inmates' connections to the outside community during their stay.