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 Louisiana State Penitentiary.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Louisiana State Penitentiary 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 Louisiana State Penitentiary.

Frequently asked questions about Louisiana State Penitentiary

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 Louisiana State Penitentiary.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Louisiana State Penitentiary?

   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 Louisiana State Penitentiary?

   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 Louisiana State Penitentiary. 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 Louisiana State Penitentiary. 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 Louisiana State Penitentiary?

   Mailing address:

   Louisiana State Penitentiary
   17544 Tunica Trace
   Angola, LA 70712
   Phone: (225) 655-4411

   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 Louisiana State Penitentiary?

   Visiting hours at Louisiana State Penitentiary 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 (225) 655-4411 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 Louisiana State Penitentiary?

   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 Louisiana State Penitentiary for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Louisiana State Penitentiary?

   You can send money to an inmate at Louisiana State Penitentiary 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 Louisiana State Penitentiary?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Louisiana State Penitentiary, 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 Louisiana State Penitentiary?

   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 Louisiana State Penitentiary 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 Louisiana State Penitentiary, 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

Educational programming forms a cornerstone of rehabilitation efforts at Louisiana State Penitentiary, with basic and broad-based educational services available to motivated individuals who demonstrate appropriate behavior within academic settings. The facility's comprehensive approach extends to mental health services, including screening, diagnosis, and treatment for mental illness, developmental disabilities, and substance abuse issues. These foundational programs align with the institution's mission to provide custody, control, care, and treatment while preparing individuals for successful reintegration into society.

The facility typically implements innovative programs and initiatives designed to prepare individuals for release, focusing on reducing recidivism through skill development and behavioral modification. Healthcare services may include constitutionally acceptable medical care that reflects community standards, while substance abuse treatment programs often address addiction issues that contribute to criminal behavior. Vocational training opportunities may be available to help individuals develop marketable skills, and counseling services typically support personal development and address underlying issues that led to incarceration.

Louisiana State Penitentiary's programming structure generally emphasizes public safety through effective correctional and supervisory approaches while maintaining an environment focused on rehabilitation. The facility may offer religious services, recreational activities, and work programs that provide structure and purpose during incarceration. Library services and correspondence courses often supplement formal educational offerings, while family visitation programs typically help maintain important community connections that support successful reentry into society.

Daily Life & Visitation

The Louisiana State Penitentiary in Angola operates under a structured mission focused on custody, control, care, and treatment of incarcerated individuals, with daily routines designed to support both security and rehabilitation goals. Located at 17544 Tunica Trace in Angola, the facility emphasizes educational opportunities for motivated individuals who demonstrate appropriate behavior within institutional settings. The administration, led by leadership committed to maintaining high ethical standards, works to create an environment that balances public safety with preparing individuals for successful reintegration into society upon release.

Educational programming typically forms a significant component of daily activities, with broad-based learning opportunities available to those who qualify based on their conduct and motivation levels. The facility often incorporates innovative programs and initiatives designed to enhance preparation for release, which may include vocational training, life skills development, and substance abuse treatment components. Mental health services are generally integrated into daily operations, providing screening, diagnosis, and treatment for various conditions as part of the comprehensive care approach.

Healthcare services typically follow community care standards, with medical staff providing constitutionally acceptable levels of care in an efficient manner. Family connections are usually maintained through established visitation procedures and communication policies, though specific schedules and restrictions may vary based on security classifications and individual circumstances. The facility's philosophy of respecting human dignity while ensuring public safety generally influences how daily operations are structured, from meal times and work assignments to recreational activities and program participation opportunities.