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 Manistee County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Manistee 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 Manistee County Jail.

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

   Mailing address:

   Manistee County Jail
   1525 E Parkdale Ave
   Manistee, MI 49660
   Phone: (231) 723-8435

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

   Visiting hours at Manistee 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 (231) 723-8435 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 Manistee 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 Manistee County Jail for their specific mail policies.

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

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

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Manistee 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 Manistee 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 Manistee 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 Manistee 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 Manistee County Jail prioritizes comprehensive support for inmates through mental health services, medical care, and rehabilitation programming designed to address various needs during incarceration. Located at 1525 E Parkdale Ave and attached to the Sheriff's Office, this 82-capacity facility emphasizes maintaining a clean, safe, and secure environment while providing inmates with essential resources for personal development and family connections.

Educational and recreational opportunities are readily available through the facility's recreational room, which houses a library containing diverse reading materials ranging from novels to legal books. Inmates can also access workout equipment to maintain physical fitness during their stay. The jail's commitment to modern communication is evident through the 2024 addition of video visitation stations in each block, allowing inmates in general population to maintain important connections with friends and family members through video calls.

Beyond the confirmed programs, Manistee County Jail may offer additional support services typical of Michigan correctional facilities, such as substance abuse counseling, educational classes, and pre-release planning assistance. The facility's focus on professionalism and respect, combined with ongoing deputy training, creates an environment where inmates can access various resources aimed at addressing underlying issues and preparing for successful reintegration into the community. The jail's 24-hour availability for contact ensures that families and legal representatives can maintain necessary communication regarding inmates' needs and case matters.

Daily Life & Visitation

The 82-bed Manistee County Jail, built in 1989 with a 2009 expansion, houses inmates across six classification blocks designed to separate populations based on security needs and demographics. Located at 1525 E Parkdale Ave and attached to the Sheriff's Office, the facility operates under 24/7 monitoring from Central Control, where Correctional Deputies maintain constant surveillance of all housing areas. Inmates typically begin each day with scheduled counts and meals delivered to their blocks, followed by structured time periods that may include access to programming, recreation, or work assignments depending on their classification level and behavior status.

The facility's recreational room serves as a central hub for inmate activities, featuring workout equipment and a library stocked with novels and legal reference materials. Since 2024, inmates in general population can utilize video visitation stations installed in each block, allowing them to maintain contact with family and friends through scheduled video calls. This technological upgrade has enhanced communication options beyond traditional phone calls and in-person visits. Mental health services, medical care, and rehabilitation programming are typically available to address various inmate needs, though specific schedules and eligibility requirements may vary based on individual circumstances and facility resources.

Security procedures include the use of a body scanner implemented in 2024, which screens all individuals upon booking to detect contraband. The jail's design with separate male and female housing blocks, along with specialized holding and detox cells near Central Control, allows staff to manage different populations while maintaining safety protocols. Inmates generally follow structured daily routines that include meal times, recreation periods, and program participation, all supervised by Correctional Deputies who receive ongoing annual training to maintain professional standards and current knowledge of policies and procedures.