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 Marshall County Detention Center.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Marshall County Detention Center 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 Marshall County Detention Center.

Frequently asked questions about Marshall County Detention Center

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 Marshall County Detention Center.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Marshall County Detention Center?

   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 Marshall County Detention Center?

   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 Marshall County Detention Center. 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 Marshall County Detention Center. 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 Marshall County Detention Center?

   Mailing address:

   Marshall County Detention Center
   54 Judicial Dr
   Benton, KY 42025
   Phone: (270) 527-4760

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Thursday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Saturday: Closed
   • Sunday: Closed

5. What are the visiting hours at Marshall County Detention Center?

   Visiting hours at Marshall County Detention Center 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 (270) 527-4760 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 Marshall County Detention Center?

   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 Marshall County Detention Center for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Marshall County Detention Center?

   You can send money to an inmate at Marshall County Detention Center 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 Marshall County Detention Center?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Marshall County Detention Center, 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 Marshall County Detention Center?

   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 Marshall County Detention Center 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 Marshall County Detention Center, 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 its structured visitation program and commissary services, the Marshall County Detention Center provides foundational support systems for individuals in custody. The facility operates a comprehensive visitation schedule Tuesday through Saturday, allowing each person a 20-minute weekly visit with family members or approved contacts. This regular connection to the outside community often serves as an important component of maintaining relationships during incarceration. The facility also provides access to the Care-A-Cell commissary system, which enables individuals to purchase hygiene items, snacks, and writing materials while also facilitating communication through video calls, text messages, and emails.

Beyond these core services, Marshall County Detention Center may offer additional programming typical of Kentucky correctional facilities. Educational opportunities could include GED preparation classes and basic literacy programs to help individuals work toward completing their high school equivalency. The facility might also provide substance abuse counseling and support groups, as these services are commonly needed within the correctional population. Mental health services may be available through contracted providers, offering individual counseling and crisis intervention when necessary.

Vocational training programs could potentially include basic job readiness skills, computer literacy, or trade-specific preparation to help individuals develop employable skills before release. Religious services and chaplaincy programs are often available to provide spiritual support and guidance. The facility may also coordinate with local organizations to offer life skills classes covering topics such as financial literacy, parenting, and anger management. These combined services typically aim to address the various needs of individuals in custody while preparing them for successful reintegration into their communities.

Daily Life & Visitation

Visitation schedules at Marshall County Detention Center follow a structured weekly pattern, with male inmates receiving visits Tuesday through Saturday from 7:30 AM to 10:30 AM, while female inmates have a shorter window from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM during the same days. Each inmate may have one 20-minute visit per week, and visitors must sign in at the lobby and contact the Control Room via intercom to be properly registered. The facility maintains strict policies regarding electronic devices, with cell phones and recording equipment strictly prohibited during visits.

Inmates typically begin their days with structured routines that may include meal times, work assignments, and recreational periods, though specific scheduling varies based on housing assignments and security classifications. Those housed in the Restricted Custody Facility (Class D) operate on different schedules, with visitation opportunities on Sundays and Mondays from 8:00 AM to 10:30 AM. Throughout the week, inmates have access to the Care-A-Cell commissary system, which allows them to purchase hygiene items, snacks, and writing materials using funds from their commissary accounts.

The facility provides opportunities for inmates to maintain connections with family and friends through various communication methods available through the commissary system, including video calls, text messages, and emails. Personal clothing items may be received from third-party vendors like Amazon or Walmart, but must arrive within 14 days of the inmate’s arrival and meet specific requirements - dedicated white or gray cotton items are permitted, with restrictions on items containing drawstrings, buttons, or zippers. These policies help maintain security while allowing inmates to have some personal comfort items during their stay.