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 Salle County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about La Salle 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 Salle County Jail.

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

   Mailing address:

   La Salle County Jail
   707 E Etna Rd
   Ottawa, IL 61350
   Phone: (815) 434-8383

   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 La Salle County Jail?

   Visiting hours at La Salle 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 (815) 434-8383 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 Salle 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 Salle County Jail for their specific mail policies.

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

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

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At La Salle 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 Salle 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 Salle 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 Salle 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

From foundational literacy skills to specialized vocational training, the comprehensive array of opportunities at LaSalle County Jail reflects a commitment to addressing the diverse needs of individuals during their incarceration. This multifaceted approach recognizes that meaningful change often requires access to various types of programming that can address educational gaps, develop practical skills, and support personal growth. The facility's programming philosophy centers on providing individuals with tools and resources that may contribute to their successful reintegration into the community.

Educational opportunities typically form a cornerstone of the facility's offerings, with education services that may include basic literacy instruction, GED preparation, and civic education components designed to enhance understanding of community responsibilities and civic engagement. Additionally, vocational programs often provide hands-on training in practical skills, including specialized instruction in forklift operation that can translate directly to employment opportunities upon release. Work release programs may offer eligible individuals the chance to maintain employment connections while serving their sentence, helping to preserve important workplace relationships and income streams.

The facility often includes therapeutic and creative opportunities designed to support personal development and address underlying challenges. Mental health treatment services typically provide professional support for individuals dealing with various psychological and emotional concerns that may have contributed to their legal difficulties. Additionally, creative writing opportunities may offer participants an outlet for self-expression and reflection, allowing individuals to process their experiences and develop communication skills. These varied programming options work together to create a comprehensive support system that addresses multiple aspects of an individual's rehabilitation and preparation for community reentry.

Daily Life & Visitation

The sound of morning announcements now signals the beginning of each day for individuals housed at LaSalle County Jail, where structured routines help maintain order and purpose. Wake-up typically occurs in the early morning hours, followed by head counts and preparation for breakfast. Throughout the day, individuals regularly participate in scheduled activities that may include educational programming, work assignments, and recreational periods. Meal times generally provide structure to the daily schedule, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner served at consistent times in designated dining areas or housing units.

Living accommodations at the facility typically consist of housing units designed to separate individuals based on various classification factors. Dormitory-style housing or individual cells may be utilized depending on security levels and available space. Personal property is generally limited to essential items and approved commissary purchases. Additionally, individuals often have access to basic hygiene supplies and bedding materials. While space may be limited, housing areas usually include common areas where individuals can interact during designated periods under staff supervision.

Programs and activities offer individuals opportunities to maintain connections with family and work toward personal goals. Visitation policies typically allow for scheduled visits with approved family members and friends, while phone calls and written correspondence help maintain important relationships. Work assignments within the facility may include kitchen duties, cleaning responsibilities, or maintenance tasks that provide structure and sometimes modest compensation. Educational programming and recreational activities, when available, generally aim to promote positive use of time during incarceration. These various components of daily life work together to create an environment focused on safety, security, and preparation for eventual reintegration into the community.