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 Oconto County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Oconto 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 Oconto County Jail.

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

   Mailing address:

   Oconto County Jail
   301 Washington St
   Oconto, WI 54153
   Phone: (920) 834-6918

   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 Oconto County Jail?

   Visiting hours at Oconto 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 (920) 834-6918 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 Oconto 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 Oconto County Jail for their specific mail policies.

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

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

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Oconto 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 Oconto 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 Oconto 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 Oconto 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 Oconto County Jail operates with a clear mission to provide proper and humane treatment while ensuring constitutional rights are protected for all individuals in custody. Under the oversight of Jail Administrator Carol Kopp and following Wisconsin Statutes and Department of Corrections administrative code, the facility's modern design with 17 housing units allows for effective inmate classification, which typically supports the delivery of targeted programming based on individual needs and security levels.

While the facility's website emphasizes its commitment to constitutional rights and community safety, correctional facilities in Wisconsin commonly offer educational programming that may include GED preparation, basic literacy courses, and life skills training. The jail may also provide substance abuse counseling and mental health services, as these are standard components of rehabilitation efforts in county facilities. Additionally, inmates often have access to religious services, library materials, and correspondence courses that support personal development during incarceration.

The facility's classification system, enabled by its varied housing units including both single cells and dormitory-style accommodations, likely allows staff to match programming opportunities with individual rehabilitation needs. Vocational training programs may be available, along with work opportunities within the facility that help inmates develop job skills and maintain structure. Support services typically include medical care, commissary access, and visitation programs that help maintain family connections, all of which contribute to successful reintegration into the community upon release.

Daily Life & Visitation

The newly constructed Oconto County Jail, which opened in August 2017, houses inmates within a modern main center pod designed to accommodate up to 145 individuals across 17 distinct housing units. This thoughtful design allows for effective classification of inmates, with some units featuring single-cell assignments while others operate as dormitory-style, open-concept housing areas. Under the oversight of Jail Administrator Carol Kopp and a staff of 27 correctional professionals, the facility operates according to Wisconsin Statutes and Department of Corrections administrative code, ensuring inmates receive proper and humane treatment while maintaining constitutional protections.

Inmates typically follow structured daily schedules that may include designated meal times, recreational periods, and educational or work programs common to Wisconsin correctional facilities. The jail's classification system helps determine appropriate housing assignments and programming opportunities based on individual circumstances and security levels. Communication with family and friends often includes scheduled visitation periods and phone privileges, though specific policies may vary. The facility's design with multiple housing configurations allows staff to accommodate different security classifications while maintaining order and safety throughout the institution.

For families seeking information about specific policies, visitation schedules, or inmate services, Jail Administrator Kopp can be reached at 920-834-6917. The facility strives to balance security requirements with rehabilitation opportunities, often providing access to educational materials, religious services, and other programs designed to support inmates during their stay while ensuring community safety remains the top priority.