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 Lee County Sheriff's Department.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Lee County Sheriff's Department 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 Lee County Sheriff's Department.

Frequently asked questions about Lee County Sheriff's Department

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 Lee County Sheriff's Department.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Lee County Sheriff's Department?

   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 Lee County Sheriff's Department?

   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 Lee County Sheriff's Department. 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 Lee County Sheriff's Department. 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 Lee County Sheriff's Department?

   Mailing address:

   Lee County Sheriff's Department
   510 Commerce St
   Tupelo, MS 38804
   Phone: (662) 841-9040

   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 Lee County Sheriff's Department?

   Visiting hours at Lee County Sheriff's Department 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 (662) 841-9040 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 Lee County Sheriff's Department?

   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 Lee County Sheriff's Department for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Lee County Sheriff's Department?

   You can send money to an inmate at Lee County Sheriff's Department 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 Lee County Sheriff's Department?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Lee County Sheriff's Department, 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 Lee County Sheriff's Department?

   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 Lee County Sheriff's Department 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 Lee County Sheriff's Department, 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 Lee County Sheriff's Office Corrections Bureau operates comprehensive educational and rehabilitation programs designed to prepare incarcerated individuals for successful reintegration into the community. The facility's GED Program serves inmates without high school diplomas, providing preparation assistance and testing opportunities, while the ESE/Juvenile School Program, operated by the Lee County School District, specifically serves those under 18 and individuals up to age 22 who were previously enrolled in Exceptional Student Education programs. These educational initiatives are complemented by the Lifeskills Program, which covers essential topics including anger management, alternatives to domestic violence, parenting skills, communication skills, gender-specific issues, and resume writing and job preparation.

The Community Program Unit (CPU), a minimum security facility with 336 beds, offers an extensive array of programs focused on re-entry skills and substance abuse treatment. This specialized unit typically provides alcohol and drug treatment programs designed to address addiction issues that may have contributed to criminal behavior. The facility may also offer additional counseling services, including individual and group therapy sessions, to support mental health and behavioral modification goals.

Beyond educational and therapeutic programs, the corrections system may provide various support services to maintain family connections and prepare individuals for employment. These could include vocational training opportunities, work programs that develop job skills, and religious services that offer spiritual guidance and community support. The facility's comprehensive approach to programming reflects a commitment to addressing the underlying factors that contribute to criminal behavior while building the practical skills necessary for successful community reintegration.

Daily Life & Visitation

The Lee County Sheriff's Office operates three distinct facilities that house inmates based on security classification and program needs. At the Downtown Jail, a maximum security facility serving as the central intake point, newly arrested individuals undergo the booking process before being classified and potentially transferred to appropriate housing. The Core Facility, housing both medium and maximum security inmates along with the female population, serves as the operational hub providing essential services including meals, medical care, and laundry operations for the entire corrections system.

Inmates may participate in various educational and rehabilitation programs depending on their facility placement and eligibility. The GED Program offers preparation and testing opportunities for those without high school diplomas, while the Lifeskills Program covers essential topics such as anger management, communication skills, resume writing, and job preparation. Those under 18 or qualifying ESE students under 22 can access educational services through the Lee County School District program. Inmates housed at the Community Program Unit, the minimum security facility, typically have access to the most comprehensive programming focused on re-entry preparation and substance abuse treatment.

Family connections are maintained through established visiting procedures and communication systems including the Smart Jail Mail service for correspondence. The facility operates a canteen system where approved funds can be deposited for inmates to purchase approved items. Daily routines generally follow standard correctional schedules with designated times for meals, programming, recreation, and other activities, though specific schedules may vary by housing unit and security level. Medical services are provided on-site, with the corrections bureau managing healthcare costs and ensuring inmates receive necessary treatment during their incarceration.