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 Missouri State Penitentiary.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Missouri State Penitentiary 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 Missouri State Penitentiary.

Frequently asked questions about Missouri State Penitentiary

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 Missouri State Penitentiary.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Missouri State Penitentiary?

   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 Missouri State Penitentiary?

   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 Missouri State Penitentiary. 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 Missouri State Penitentiary. 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 Missouri State Penitentiary?

   Mailing address:

   Missouri State Penitentiary
   115 Lafayette St
   Jefferson City, MO 65101
   Phone: (866) 998-6998

5. What are the visiting hours at Missouri State Penitentiary?

   Visiting hours at Missouri State Penitentiary 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 (866) 998-6998 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 Missouri State Penitentiary?

   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 Missouri State Penitentiary for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Missouri State Penitentiary?

   You can send money to an inmate at Missouri State Penitentiary 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 Missouri State Penitentiary?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Missouri State Penitentiary, 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 Missouri State Penitentiary?

   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 Missouri State Penitentiary 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 Missouri State Penitentiary, 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

A foundation built on personal growth and skill development shapes the comprehensive opportunities available to individuals at Louisiana State Penitentiary, Angola. The facility’s approach recognizes that meaningful change occurs through diverse pathways, whether through academic achievement, hands-on training, or therapeutic support. This philosophy drives a multi-faceted system designed to address various aspects of personal development and prepare individuals for successful reintegration into their communities.

Educational opportunities typically form the cornerstone of personal advancement, with programs that may offer basic literacy instruction through high school equivalency preparation. Academic coursework often includes subjects ranging from mathematics and English to computer literacy, allowing individuals to build foundational skills at their own pace. Also available are vocational training opportunities that provide practical, marketable skills including small engine repair and HVAC certification programs. These hands-on training experiences often combine classroom instruction with real-world application, giving participants the technical expertise and work experience that employers value.

Therapeutic opportunities address the underlying factors that may have contributed to incarceration, with substance abuse treatment programs offering both group and individual counseling sessions. These evidence-based approaches typically incorporate cognitive-behavioral techniques and relapse prevention strategies. Also integrated into the comprehensive framework are community service opportunities that allow individuals to contribute meaningfully to facility operations and local community needs. This combination of educational advancement, vocational training, therapeutic intervention, and service learning creates a holistic approach to personal development that addresses multiple dimensions of growth and preparation for life beyond incarceration.

Daily Life & Visitation

The sound of a bell or announcement typically signals the beginning of each structured day for individuals housed at Louisiana State Penitentiary. Morning routines now begin early, with individuals regularly participating in count procedures before moving to assigned activities. The facility generally operates on a regimented schedule that includes meal times, work assignments, and programming opportunities. However, the pace may vary depending on housing assignments and individual participation in various programs.

Living accommodations at the facility typically consist of dormitory-style housing or cell-based units, depending on classification levels and security requirements. Individuals usually share living spaces and have access to basic amenities including bedding, personal hygiene items, and limited personal property storage. Also, the facility generally provides three meals daily in designated dining areas, with menus that typically meet basic nutritional requirements. However, individuals may also have access to commissary services where they can purchase additional food items and personal supplies with funds from their accounts.

Work assignments often offer structure and may include maintenance, food service, laundry operations, or other facility support roles. The facility typically provides recreational opportunities such as outdoor exercise periods, television viewing in common areas, and access to library services. Also, individuals generally have scheduled visitation opportunities where approved family members and friends can visit, though these sessions usually require advance scheduling and adherence to specific guidelines. However, communication with loved ones may also include monitored phone calls and correspondence, helping individuals maintain important family connections during their time at the facility.