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 Leon County Sheriff’s Office.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Leon County Sheriff’s Office 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 Leon County Sheriff’s Office.

Frequently asked questions about Leon County Sheriff’s Office

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 Leon County Sheriff’s Office.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Leon County Sheriff’s Office?

   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 Leon County Sheriff’s Office?

   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 Leon County Sheriff’s Office. 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 Leon County Sheriff’s Office. 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 Leon County Sheriff’s Office?

   Mailing address:

   Leon County Sheriff’s Office
   606 East St Marys St
   Centerville, TX 75833
   Phone: (903) 536-2749

5. What are the visiting hours at Leon County Sheriff’s Office?

   Visiting hours at Leon County Sheriff’s Office 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 (903) 536-2749 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 Leon County Sheriff’s Office?

   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 Leon County Sheriff’s Office for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Leon County Sheriff’s Office?

   You can send money to an inmate at Leon County Sheriff’s Office 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 Leon County Sheriff’s Office?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Leon County Sheriff’s Office, 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 Leon County Sheriff’s Office?

   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 Leon County Sheriff’s Office 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 Leon County Sheriff’s Office, 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

Through comprehensive programming designed to address the multifaceted needs of its population, Leon County Jail demonstrates a commitment to fostering personal growth and successful community reintegration. The facility’s approach recognizes that meaningful change occurs when individuals are provided with structured opportunities to develop essential life skills, address underlying challenges, and strengthen their connections to family and community. This philosophy permeates throughout the various initiatives, creating an environment where participants can engage in transformative experiences that extend far beyond their period of incarceration.

Educational and vocational programming forms a cornerstone of the facility’s rehabilitative efforts, with literacy programs typically offering foundational instruction in reading, writing, and basic mathematics to help participants achieve greater academic competency. These educational initiatives often serve as stepping stones to more specialized vocational training opportunities, which may supply hands-on instruction in marketable trades and technical skills. Also, participants frequently have access to computer literacy courses and workforce preparation programs that emphasize resume writing, interview techniques, and professional communication skills essential for successful employment upon release.

The facility’s therapeutic and support services address the complex personal and emotional challenges that many individuals face, with mental health counseling programs often providing both individual and group therapy sessions facilitated by qualified professionals. Work programs typically allow participants to develop responsibility and work ethic while contributing to facility operations, creating a sense of purpose and accomplishment. Also, faith-based initiatives may offer spiritual guidance and community support, providing participants with additional resources for personal reflection and moral development that can strengthen their resolve to make positive life changes and maintain strong family relationships.

Daily Life & Visitation

The carefully orchestrated framework of housing assignments, meal schedules, and supervised activities creates a predictable rhythm that shapes every aspect of the population’s experience at Leon County Jail. At present, residents actively participate in a structured daily routine that typically begins with early morning counts and continues through designated periods for meals, programming, and recreation. The facility generally operates on a schedule that balances security requirements with opportunities for personal development and maintaining connections with family members.

Housing units are organized to accommodate different classification levels and security needs, with the population typically assigned to dormitory-style or cell-based accommodations depending on their individual circumstances. Meals are generally served at designated times in common dining areas or delivered to housing units, with the facility providing three meals daily that meet nutritional standards. Also, residents may access commissary services to purchase approved personal items and snacks, which helps supplement their basic needs and provides some personal choice within the structured environment.

The facility typically supplies various programming opportunities that may include educational classes, substance abuse counseling, and religious services, though availability often depends on current staffing and resources. Recreation periods usually provide time for physical exercise and outdoor activities when weather and security conditions permit. However, visitation policies generally allow family members and approved visitors to maintain contact through scheduled visits, video calls, or telephone communication, with specific procedures varying based on housing assignments and individual restrictions. Work assignments within the facility may also be available for eligible residents, offering opportunities to contribute to daily operations while developing job skills and maintaining productive routines.