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 Lowndes County Sheriff's Office.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Lowndes 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 Lowndes County Sheriff's Office.

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

   Mailing address:

   Lowndes County Sheriff's Office
   527 S Martin Luther King Jr Dr
   Columbus, MS 39701
   Phone: (662) 328-6788

5. What are the visiting hours at Lowndes County Sheriff's Office?

   Visiting hours at Lowndes 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 (662) 328-6788 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 Lowndes 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 Lowndes County Sheriff's Office for their specific mail policies.

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

   You can send money to an inmate at Lowndes 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 Lowndes County Sheriff's Office?

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

Rehabilitation-focused initiatives at the Lowndes County Sheriff's facility emphasize skill development and personal growth opportunities for residents. The facility typically operates under a philosophy that combines practical education with meaningful work experiences to support successful community reintegration. These comprehensive initiatives often include structured daily activities designed to build both technical skills and personal responsibility.

Educational services form a cornerstone of the facility's approach, with residents often having access to basic literacy programs and continuing education opportunities. Vocational programs may deliver hands-on training in various trades, allowing participants to develop marketable skills during their incarceration. Additionally, these educational initiatives typically focus on practical knowledge that residents can immediately apply upon release, creating pathways to sustainable employment.

Support services extend beyond traditional education to address multiple aspects of resident needs. Faith-based initiatives often provide spiritual guidance and community connection for those who choose to participate. The facility may offer identification document assistance to help residents obtain essential paperwork needed for employment and housing applications. Additionally, prison industries and building maintenance programs typically allow residents to gain work experience while contributing to facility operations, fostering both practical skills and a sense of purpose during their time in custody.

Daily Life & Visitation

Structured routines at present deliver essential stability through consistent daily schedules that residents actively follow throughout their time in custody. The Lowndes County Sheriff's facility typically maintains regular wake-up times, meal periods, and scheduled activities that help residents establish predictable patterns. These routines generally include designated times for personal hygiene, housing unit maintenance, and movement between different areas of the facility.

Living accommodations usually consist of shared housing units where residents are assigned bunks and provided basic necessities including bedding, clothing, and personal hygiene items. Meals are typically served in designated dining areas at regular intervals, with residents following established procedures for meal service and cleanup duties. Additionally, the facility generally offers recreational opportunities such as television viewing, reading materials, and outdoor exercise periods when weather and security conditions permit.

While maintaining security protocols, the facility typically provides structured programming that may include educational opportunities, work assignments, and life skills development. Residents can usually participate in facility maintenance duties, kitchen operations, or cleaning assignments that help maintain daily operations. Family connections remain important through scheduled visitation periods and telephone access, allowing residents to maintain contact with their support systems during their stay.