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 Meade County Detention Center.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Meade 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 Meade County Detention Center.

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

   Mailing address:

   Meade County Detention Center
   516 Hillcrest Dr
   Brandenburg, KY 40108
   Phone: (270) 422-2546

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

   Visiting hours at Meade 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) 422-2546 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 Meade 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 Meade County Detention Center for their specific mail policies.

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

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

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

The Meade County Detention Center in Kentucky emphasizes community-based rehabilitation through its work release programs and partnerships with local organizations. These programs facilitate open communication and collaboration with community agencies including Parks and Recreation, the city of Brandenburg, the city of Muldraugh, and the Meade County Recycling Center. The facility actively engages local volunteers and agencies to institute programs designed to assist in inmate rehabilitation, while also promoting county cleanliness through inmate participation in road cleanup and debris removal projects.

As part of its mission to provide quality rehabilitation services while reducing taxpayer costs, the detention center operates a garden program that helps provide food for inmates. This agricultural initiative may serve dual purposes of teaching valuable skills while supporting the facility's nutritional needs. The center typically offers educational programming that may include GED preparation, basic literacy courses, and life skills training to help prepare inmates for successful reintegration into the community.

The facility's comprehensive approach to rehabilitation often includes substance abuse counseling, anger management classes, and religious services provided through community partnerships. Mental health support services may be available to address underlying issues that contribute to criminal behavior. The detention center's emphasis on building relationships with law enforcement and community organizations suggests a coordinated approach to reentry planning, which may include job placement assistance and transitional support services to help reduce recidivism rates in Meade County.

Daily Life & Visitation

The Meade County Detention Center operates with a clear focus on maintaining safety and security while providing structured rehabilitation opportunities for inmates. The facility's mission emphasizes creating a supportive correctional environment that serves both the incarcerated population and the broader Meade County community. Inmates typically follow a structured daily schedule that may include meals, recreation time, and participation in various programs designed to support their rehabilitation and eventual reintegration into society.

Work release programs form a significant component of daily operations, allowing eligible inmates to contribute to community improvement projects while developing job skills. Participants often engage in road cleanup initiatives throughout Meade County, helping maintain the area's cleanliness and beautification. The facility also operates a garden program that serves dual purposes - providing fresh food for inmates while reducing operational costs for taxpayers. These work opportunities typically offer inmates a chance to develop responsibility and work habits that may benefit them upon release.

The detention center maintains partnerships with local organizations and volunteers to provide additional programming and support services. Communication with family members and legal representatives follows standard correctional protocols, though specific visitation schedules and phone policies may vary based on security classifications and facility rules. Inmates generally have access to basic necessities and medical care, with the facility's commitment to respecting individual dignity reflected in its operational approach. Those seeking specific information about visitation hours, commissary services, or inmate programs should contact the facility directly at 270-422-4937, as policies and schedules may change based on security needs and operational requirements.