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 Montgomery County Detention Center.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Montgomery 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 Montgomery County Detention Center.

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

   Mailing address:

   Montgomery County Detention Center
   1307 Seven Locks Rd
   Rockville, MD 20854
   Phone: (240) 777-9960

   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 Montgomery County Detention Center?

   Visiting hours at Montgomery 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 (240) 777-9960 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 Montgomery 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 Montgomery County Detention Center for their specific mail policies.

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

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

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Montgomery 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 Montgomery 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 Montgomery 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 Montgomery 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 Montgomery County Correctional Facility operates through a comprehensive three-tier organizational structure focused on custody and security, inmate services and programs, and facility operations, all designed to deliver progressive correctional services. At the heart of their programming is the Model Learning Center, which provides full-time educational, vocational, and special education opportunities for inmates. The facility's Choice for Change program specifically addresses the needs of youthful offenders aged 21 and under, while also extending treatment options to adult men and women. These core programs are supported by acute and chronic medical care, dental services, and specialized mental health services that include crisis intervention, assessment, and treatment through a dedicated Crisis Intervention Unit for inmates requiring specialized housing due to acute or chronic symptoms.

Religious services and therapeutic substance abuse programs form additional pillars of the facility's rehabilitation approach, complemented by various self-help programs that encourage personal development. The facility maintains a full-service library alongside multi-purpose and recreation program areas that support both educational and therapeutic activities. Mental health services may extend beyond crisis intervention to include ongoing counseling and support groups, while vocational training programs typically focus on developing job skills that support successful reintegration into the community.

Montgomery County Correctional Facility may also offer additional support services commonly found in Maryland correctional facilities, such as pre-release planning assistance, family counseling services, and community reentry programs. These services often include job placement assistance, housing support, and connections to community resources. The facility's commitment to providing a safe and secure environment extends to comprehensive programming that addresses the diverse needs of both pre-trial detainees and sentenced inmates serving terms up to 18 months.

Daily Life & Visitation

The Montgomery County Correctional Facility in Boyds operates around the clock to house both male and female inmates in pre-trial status or serving sentences up to 18 months. With a capacity of 1,028 inmates, the facility maintains structured daily routines that balance security requirements with comprehensive programming. Inmates typically begin their day with early morning counts and meal service, followed by scheduled activities that may include educational classes at the Model Learning Center, vocational training, or participation in therapeutic programs. The facility's organization into three major functional areas—Custody & Security, Inmate Services & Programs, and Facility Operations—ensures that daily operations run smoothly while providing inmates access to medical care, dental services, and mental health support as needed.

Programming plays a significant role in structuring inmates' daily schedules, with the Choice for Change treatment program serving offenders 21 and under, while adult inmates may participate in substance abuse programs, religious services, or self-help initiatives. The facility's full-service library and recreation areas provide additional structured time for personal development and physical activity. Inmates requiring specialized care may be housed in the Crisis Intervention Unit, which offers a therapeutic environment for those with acute or chronic mental health symptoms that prevent placement in general population housing.

Family connections remain important during incarceration, with the facility operating visiting programs seven days a week. Visitors can access bus schedules and directions through the facility's resources, and orientation videos help prepare families for the visiting process. The facility typically maintains regular visiting hours and communication policies that allow inmates to stay connected with their support systems while serving their time. Medical and dental services are available to address both routine and emergency health needs, ensuring that inmates receive appropriate care throughout their stay at the facility.