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 Oconee County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Oconee 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 Oconee County Jail.

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

   Mailing address:

   Oconee County Jail
   1140 Experiment Station Rd
   Watkinsville, GA 30677
   Phone: (706) 769-3930

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

   Visiting hours at Oconee 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 (706) 769-3930 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 Oconee 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 Oconee County Jail for their specific mail policies.

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

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

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Oconee 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 Oconee 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 Oconee 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 Oconee 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 Oconee County Jail operates under a mission to provide secure, constitutional, and humane care for adult male and female inmates while maintaining the highest degree of security for the community. With dedicated staff including an Inmate Services Coordinator who oversees programming and support services, the facility emphasizes both safety and rehabilitation in its approach to corrections. The jail's commitment to operating efficiently while planning for future criminal justice needs reflects a forward-thinking approach to inmate services and community safety.

Inmates at the facility typically have access to various support services coordinated through the dedicated Inmate Services department. These may include basic educational programs, substance abuse counseling, and pre-release planning assistance to help prepare individuals for successful reintegration into the community. The facility often provides religious services, library access, and recreational activities as part of maintaining constitutional standards of care. Mental health support services may also be available to address the diverse needs of the inmate population.

The jail's administrative structure, which includes shift commanders and specialized coordinators, helps ensure that programs and services are delivered consistently across all operational periods. Family communication services, including visitation and correspondence programs, are typically maintained to support healthy relationships during incarceration. The facility may also coordinate with local organizations and agencies to provide additional resources such as job placement assistance, housing support, and continuing education opportunities that help reduce recidivism and promote successful community reentry.

Daily Life & Visitation

The Oconee County Jail operates under a structured framework designed to provide secure, constitutional and humane care for adult male and female inmates, with facility staff working around the clock to maintain both security and safety standards. Under the leadership of Captain Matt Towe as Chief Jailor and supported by shift commanders and specialized staff including an Inmate Services Coordinator, the facility maintains professional operations that balance security needs with inmate welfare.

Inmates typically follow structured daily schedules that may include designated meal times, recreation periods, and access to various services coordinated through the facility's administrative team. The jail staff works to provide programming and services that support inmates during their detention, though specific details about recreational activities, educational programs, or work opportunities would need to be confirmed directly with the facility. Communication with family and friends is generally facilitated through the jail's established protocols, and the facility likely maintains standard visitation procedures common to Georgia county detention centers.

The facility operates with a focus on cost-efficient management while meeting constitutional standards and Georgia Jail Standards requirements. Inmates can expect their basic needs to be met in accordance with state regulations, including housing, meals, medical care, and other essential services. Family members seeking information about specific policies, visitation schedules, or inmate services can contact the jail administrative staff at 706-769-3930 for current procedures and requirements.