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 Minnehaha County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Minnehaha 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 Minnehaha County Jail.

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

   Mailing address:

   Minnehaha County Jail
   305 W 4th St
   Sioux Falls, SD 57104
   Phone: (605) 367-4321

   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 Minnehaha County Jail?

   Visiting hours at Minnehaha 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 (605) 367-4321 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 Minnehaha 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 Minnehaha County Jail for their specific mail policies.

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

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

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Minnehaha 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 Minnehaha 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 Minnehaha 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 Minnehaha 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 Minnehaha County Jail operates a comprehensive inmate messaging system through NCIC.com, allowing families and friends to maintain vital connections through instant message delivery at $0.25 per message and document sharing for $0.35 each. This digital communication platform supports the facility's broader approach to maintaining social connections during incarceration, recognizing that family support often plays a crucial role in successful reintegration. The jail also provides essential hygiene supplies upon intake, including soap, shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, and comb, with daily razor access for personal care maintenance.

Beyond basic services, Minnehaha County Jail may offer educational programming to help individuals work toward their GED or develop basic literacy skills during their stay. The facility typically provides access to substance abuse counseling and support groups, which are common needs within the correctional population. Mental health services may also be available to address underlying issues that contribute to criminal behavior. Many South Dakota correctional facilities include vocational training opportunities or work programs that allow inmates to develop job skills while earning modest wages.

The jail's approach to inmate management includes structured orientation programming and adherence to Prison Rape Elimination Act standards, demonstrating a commitment to safety and proper procedures. Religious services and chaplaincy programs are often available to provide spiritual support and guidance. The facility may also coordinate with community organizations to offer reentry planning services, helping individuals prepare for their return to the community through assistance with housing, employment, and social services connections.

Daily Life & Visitation

Upon arrival at Minnehaha County Jail, incoming inmates receive a basic hygiene kit containing soap, shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, and a comb, establishing the foundation for personal care routines. Daily access to razors for shaving is provided, though inmates must purchase additional hygiene items beyond the initial kit. The facility operates on a structured schedule typical of correctional institutions, with designated times for meals, recreation, and programming activities throughout the day.

Communication with family and friends has been modernized through the facility's messaging system at www.NCIC.com, where loved ones can send instant messages for $0.25 each and share photos or documents for $0.35 per item. This digital system aims to reduce contraband while maintaining family connections. Traditional visitation may also be available, though specific schedules and procedures would need to be confirmed with jail staff. Inmates can receive financial support through multiple deposit options, including lobby kiosks, assistance from front desk staff, or online deposits through www.jailatm.com.

For sentenced Minnehaha County inmates, daily life includes a $10 room and board fee for each day of their sentence, though this charge does not apply to those serving sentences for other counties. The facility typically maintains structured daily routines including scheduled meal times, recreation periods, and access to programming that may include educational opportunities, religious services, and work assignments. Inmates often spend time in housing units between scheduled activities, with access to common areas and television during designated hours, creating a regulated environment focused on safety and security while serving their sentences.