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 Lakeview Shock Incarceration Center.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Lakeview Shock Incarceration 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 Lakeview Shock Incarceration Center.

Frequently asked questions about Lakeview Shock Incarceration 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 Lakeview Shock Incarceration Center.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Lakeview Shock Incarceration 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 Lakeview Shock Incarceration 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 Lakeview Shock Incarceration 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 Lakeview Shock Incarceration 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 Lakeview Shock Incarceration Center?

   Mailing address:

   Lakeview Shock Incarceration Center
   9300 Lake Ave
   Brocton, NY 14716
   Phone: (716) 792-7100

   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 Lakeview Shock Incarceration Center?

   Visiting hours at Lakeview Shock Incarceration 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 (716) 792-7100 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 Lakeview Shock Incarceration 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 Lakeview Shock Incarceration Center for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Lakeview Shock Incarceration Center?

   You can send money to an inmate at Lakeview Shock Incarceration 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 Lakeview Shock Incarceration Center?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Lakeview Shock Incarceration 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 Lakeview Shock Incarceration 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 Lakeview Shock Incarceration 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 Lakeview Shock Incarceration 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

From academic advancement to specialized vocational training, the comprehensive range of opportunities at Lakeview Facility reflects a commitment to addressing the diverse needs of individuals in custody. This multifaceted approach typically recognizes that meaningful rehabilitation requires access to educational, vocational, and therapeutic resources that can support long-term success. The facility's programming philosophy often emphasizes skill-building and personal development across multiple areas of an individual's life.

Educational opportunities may include basic literacy instruction, GED preparation, and adult education courses designed to help individuals advance their academic credentials. Additionally, vocational training programs often provide hands-on experience in trades such as welding, which can offer valuable marketable skills upon release. These educational and vocational services typically focus on building both foundational knowledge and practical abilities that individuals can apply in their future endeavors.

Therapeutic opportunities at the facility may include comprehensive substance abuse programs that address addiction and recovery through evidence-based approaches. Additionally, support services often encompass trauma-informed care designed to help individuals process past experiences in a therapeutic environment. Stress management programming typically provides individuals with practical tools and coping strategies they can use both during their incarceration and after release, supporting their overall mental health and well-being throughout their rehabilitation journey.

Daily Life & Visitation

The sound of morning announcements typically marks the beginning of each day for individuals housed within the facility's structured environment. At present, residents actively participate in a regulated schedule that includes designated times for meals, programming, and personal activities. The daily routine generally follows a consistent pattern, with individuals moving between housing units, common areas, and program spaces according to established schedules.

Living accommodations at the facility typically consist of shared housing units where individuals maintain personal belongings within approved guidelines. Meals are served in designated dining areas at scheduled intervals throughout the day, with menus that aim to meet basic nutritional requirements. Additionally, residents may access commissary services to purchase approved personal items and snacks, subject to facility policies and individual account balances.

While daily schedules offer structure through work assignments and educational programming, individuals also have opportunities for recreation and physical exercise during designated periods. The facility generally provides various programming options that may include vocational training, educational classes, and counseling services. Family connections remain important, with visitation policies typically allowing scheduled visits and phone communication privileges, helping individuals maintain relationships with loved ones during their time at the facility.