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 Ocean County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Ocean 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 Ocean County Jail.

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

   Mailing address:

   Ocean County Jail
   114 Hooper Ave
   Toms River, NJ 08753
   Phone: (732) 929-2043

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Thursday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Saturday: Closed
   • Sunday: Closed

5. What are the visiting hours at Ocean County Jail?

   Visiting hours at Ocean 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 (732) 929-2043 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 Ocean 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 Ocean County Jail for their specific mail policies.

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

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

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

Rehabilitation-focused initiatives at Ocean County Jail typically emphasize skill development and personal growth opportunities for residents. The facility often maintains a comprehensive approach that addresses multiple aspects of reentry preparation. These initiatives may deliver structured programming designed to help residents develop practical abilities and address underlying challenges that contributed to their incarceration.

Educational services form a cornerstone of the facility's programming approach. Residents may participate in basic literacy courses, GED preparation classes, and computer skills training. Furthermore, vocational programs often include janitorial services training, which provides hands-on experience in facility maintenance and cleaning operations. These educational and vocational initiatives typically focus on developing marketable skills that residents can utilize upon release.

Support services and therapeutic initiatives address both personal challenges and practical needs. Substance abuse treatment programs may deliver group counseling sessions and educational components about addiction recovery. Furthermore, domestic violence programs often include anger management components and relationship skills development. These therapeutic initiatives typically work alongside the educational programming to provide residents with a well-rounded foundation for successful community reintegration.

Daily Life & Visitation

Structured routines form the foundation of daily operations, with residents following consistent schedules that deliver predictability and order. Today's activities typically begin with early morning wake-up calls, followed by scheduled meal times, work assignments, and designated periods for recreation and programming. These consistently maintained schedules help residents understand expectations and create a sense of stability throughout their stay.

Living accommodations generally consist of shared housing units where residents are assigned beds and provided basic necessities. The facility typically houses residents in dormitory-style settings or smaller cells, depending on classification levels and available space. Furthermore, residents usually have access to common areas during designated hours and may store approved personal items in their assigned living spaces. Meals are typically served in dining areas at scheduled times, with menus planned to meet basic nutritional requirements.

Programming schedules often include educational opportunities, substance abuse counseling, and vocational training that residents may participate in based on their length of stay and eligibility. Although recreational activities are generally limited to specific time periods, residents typically have access to exercise areas, television viewing, and library materials. Family connections remain important through scheduled visitation periods and phone privileges, which generally operate according to established facility policies. Work assignments within the facility may include kitchen duties, cleaning responsibilities, and maintenance tasks that help residents maintain productive daily routines while contributing to facility operations.