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 Nelson Coleman Correctional Center.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Nelson Coleman Correctional 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 Nelson Coleman Correctional Center.

Frequently asked questions about Nelson Coleman Correctional 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 Nelson Coleman Correctional Center.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Nelson Coleman Correctional 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 Nelson Coleman Correctional 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 Nelson Coleman Correctional 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 Nelson Coleman Correctional 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 Nelson Coleman Correctional Center?

   Mailing address:

   Nelson Coleman Correctional Center
   5061 LA-3127
   Killona, LA 70057
   Phone: (985) 783-1164

   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 Nelson Coleman Correctional Center?

   Visiting hours at Nelson Coleman Correctional 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 (985) 783-1164 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 Nelson Coleman Correctional 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 Nelson Coleman Correctional Center for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Nelson Coleman Correctional Center?

   You can send money to an inmate at Nelson Coleman Correctional 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 Nelson Coleman Correctional Center?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Nelson Coleman Correctional 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 Nelson Coleman Correctional 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 Nelson Coleman Correctional 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 Nelson Coleman Correctional 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 Nelson Coleman Correctional Center incorporates modern technology to enhance security and maintain family connections through its video arraignment and video visitation systems. These technological features help minimize inmate transportation needs while reducing security risks associated with contraband introduction. The video visitation program particularly supports individuals in maintaining crucial family relationships during their incarceration, which research shows can be vital for successful reintegration into the community.

Beyond these technological services, the facility may offer educational programming that could include GED preparation classes and basic literacy instruction to help individuals develop essential academic skills. Vocational training opportunities might encompass job readiness workshops and skill-building programs designed to prepare residents for employment upon release. The center typically provides access to counseling services, which may include substance abuse treatment programs and mental health support, recognizing that addressing underlying issues is often crucial for reducing recidivism.

Additional support services at the facility may include religious programming, recreational activities, and library access to promote personal development and constructive use of time. The center likely maintains medical and dental care services to address health needs, while also potentially offering life skills classes that cover topics such as financial literacy and anger management. These comprehensive programming efforts generally aim to provide individuals with the tools and support necessary for successful community reintegration while maintaining the safety and security of the facility.

Daily Life & Visitation

The Nelson Coleman Correctional Center utilizes modern video arraignment and video visitation technology to streamline legal proceedings and family connections while maintaining strict security protocols. These technological features significantly reduce inmate transportation needs and help minimize the risk of contraband entering the facility, creating a more controlled environment for both residents and staff.

Inmates at the facility typically follow structured daily schedules that may include designated meal times, recreational periods, and work assignments or educational programming. The video visitation system allows families to maintain regular contact with their loved ones through scheduled virtual meetings, eliminating the need for physical visits while ensuring consistent communication opportunities. This system often provides more flexible scheduling options for families who may have difficulty traveling to the facility during traditional visiting hours.

The facility's focus on reducing inmate movement through video technology extends beyond visitation to include court appearances, which helps maintain routine within the housing units. Daily life generally revolves around security counts, meal service, and any available programming or work details. Inmates may have access to commissary services, library materials, and recreational activities depending on their housing classification and behavior status. The controlled environment created by these technological and security measures aims to provide a stable daily routine while ensuring the safety of all individuals within the facility.