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 Lapeer County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Lapeer 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 Lapeer County Jail.

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

   Mailing address:

   Lapeer County Jail
   3231 John Conley Dr
   Lapeer, MI 48446
   Phone: (810) 667-0445

5. What are the visiting hours at Lapeer County Jail?

   Visiting hours at Lapeer 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 (810) 667-0445 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 Lapeer 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 Lapeer County Jail for their specific mail policies.

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

   You can send money to an inmate at Lapeer 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 Lapeer County Jail?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Lapeer 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 Lapeer 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 Lapeer 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 Lapeer 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 Lapeer County Jail prioritizes comprehensive inmate care through its medical staff and programs designed to address educational, mental health, and religious needs of individuals in custody. Built in 1998 with a capacity of 123 beds, the facility operates under experienced leadership and maintains strong partnerships with law enforcement agencies throughout the county while providing essential court security services.

The jail's program offerings typically include educational services that may encompass GED preparation and basic literacy programs, helping individuals work toward academic goals during their incarceration. Mental health support appears to be a key component of the facility's approach, with counseling services likely available to address substance abuse issues, anger management, and other behavioral concerns. Religious programming accommodates various faith traditions, often including chaplain services, religious study groups, and worship opportunities that support spiritual well-being during incarceration.

Additional services at the facility may include vocational training opportunities, life skills workshops, and reentry preparation programs designed to help individuals successfully transition back into the community. The jail maintains standard inmate communication systems, visitation programs, and commissary services, while also coordinating with the court system through its security responsibilities for the 71A District Court and 40th Circuit Court. These comprehensive services reflect the facility's commitment to addressing the diverse needs of individuals in custody while maintaining security and supporting rehabilitation efforts.

Daily Life & Visitation

The 123-bed facility at 3231 John Conley Drive operates under the supervision of experienced corrections staff who maintain structured routines for all residents. Built in 1998, the Lapeer County Jail typically begins each day with early morning counts and meal service, followed by scheduled activities that may include educational programming, medical appointments, and recreational time. The facility's medical staff works to address inmates' healthcare needs throughout the day, while also supporting educational and mental health services that help structure daily activities.

Family connections remain an important part of daily life through the jail's visitation program and inmate communications system. Visitors can typically expect scheduled visitation hours that allow face-to-face contact with their loved ones, while the communications program may include phone privileges and correspondence options. The commissary system enables inmates to purchase approved items that can make daily life more comfortable, from snacks to personal hygiene products. These services help maintain important family bonds while individuals are housed at the facility.

Religious services and programming often provide additional structure to the weekly routine, as the jail works to accommodate inmates' religious beliefs and practices. Evening hours usually involve another meal service, recreational time when available, and preparation for lights-out. The experienced corrections staff, with their collective decades of service, work to maintain security while ensuring that basic daily needs are met in a structured environment that serves all law enforcement agencies throughout Lapeer County.