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 Lake County Adult Corrections Facility.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Lake County Adult Corrections Facility 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 Lake County Adult Corrections Facility.

Frequently asked questions about Lake County Adult Corrections Facility

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 Lake County Adult Corrections Facility.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Lake County Adult Corrections Facility?

   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 Lake County Adult Corrections Facility?

   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 Lake County Adult Corrections Facility. 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 Lake County Adult Corrections Facility. 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 Lake County Adult Corrections Facility?

   Mailing address:

   Lake County Adult Corrections Facility
   20 S County St
   Waukegan, IL 60085
   Phone: (847) 377-4188

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 9:00 AM – 2:30 PM
   • 5:30 – 9:00 PM
   • Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 2:30 PM
   • 5:30 – 9:00 PM
   • Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 2:30 PM
   • 5:30 – 9:00 PM
   • Thursday: 9:00 AM – 2:30 PM
   • 5:30 – 9:00 PM
   • Friday: 9:00 AM – 2:30 PM
   • 5:30 – 9:00 PM
   • Saturday: 9:00 AM – 2:30 PM
   • 5:30 – 9:00 PM
   • Sunday: 9:00 AM – 2:30 PM
   • 5:30 – 9:00 PM

5. What are the visiting hours at Lake County Adult Corrections Facility?

   Visiting hours at Lake County Adult Corrections Facility 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 (847) 377-4188 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 Lake County Adult Corrections Facility?

   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 Lake County Adult Corrections Facility for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Lake County Adult Corrections Facility?

   You can send money to an inmate at Lake County Adult Corrections Facility 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 Lake County Adult Corrections Facility?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Lake County Adult Corrections Facility, 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 Lake County Adult Corrections Facility?

   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 Lake County Adult Corrections Facility 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 Lake County Adult Corrections Facility, 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

Personal growth and rehabilitation form the foundation of service delivery at Lake County Jail in Illinois. The facility typically emphasizes helping inmates develop practical skills and address underlying challenges that may have contributed to their incarceration. Services are often designed to provide inmates with tools and resources they can use both during their stay and after release.

Educational services may provide inmates with opportunities to continue their academic development through basic literacy programs and GED preparation. The facility often includes vocational training that helps participants develop marketable job skills in various trades. Commercial driving license (CDL) preparation may be available to help inmates pursue careers in transportation and logistics upon release. Also, hands-on training in landscaping and agriculture programs typically allows participants to learn practical skills while contributing to facility operations.

Mental health treatment services often address the therapeutic needs of inmates dealing with various psychological challenges. Counseling and support groups may help participants develop coping strategies and work through personal issues. Also, these therapeutic services typically complement the educational and vocational offerings by addressing the whole person rather than focusing solely on skill development. The combination of practical training and mental health support often provides inmates with a comprehensive foundation for successful reintegration into their communities.

Daily Life & Visitation

The housing units at Lake County Jail feature a controlled environment where inmates navigate shared living spaces and structured daily expectations. Inmates currently follow established routines that begin with morning counts and continue through scheduled meals, programming, and evening lockdown procedures. The facility typically maintains consistent daily schedules that provide structure and predictability for residents.

Living accommodations generally include dormitory-style housing or individual cells, depending on classification levels and available space. Inmates typically share common areas for dining and recreation, adapting to communal living arrangements that require cooperation and respect for personal boundaries. Meals are usually served at designated times in dining areas, with inmates following specific procedures for movement throughout the facility. Also, personal property allowances may include basic hygiene items and limited personal belongings, while commissary services often provide additional items for purchase.

The facility generally provides recreational opportunities such as television viewing, reading materials, and exercise periods when space and staffing permit. Work assignments may include kitchen duties, cleaning responsibilities, or facility maintenance tasks that help inmates develop routine and contribute to daily operations. However, programming schedules and job availability typically depend on security classifications and facility needs. Visitation policies usually allow family members to maintain contact through scheduled visits, while phone privileges and mail correspondence provide additional communication options that help inmates preserve important relationships during their stay.