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 Ottawa County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Ottawa 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 Ottawa County Jail.

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

   Mailing address:

   Ottawa County Jail
   12130 Fillmore St
   West Olive, MI 49460
   Phone: (616) 786-4140

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Saturday: Closed
   • Sunday: Closed

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

   Visiting hours at Ottawa 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 (616) 786-4140 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 Ottawa 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 Ottawa County Jail for their specific mail policies.

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

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

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

Individuals at Ottawa County Jail may access a comprehensive range of opportunities designed to support personal growth and successful community reintegration. The facility typically emphasizes skill development and preparation for life after release. This approach often includes multiple pathways for individuals to build practical abilities and address personal challenges.

Educational and vocational opportunities form a cornerstone of available programming. Vocational education may provide hands-on training in various trades and technical skills that align with local employment needs. Education programs often include basic literacy instruction, GED preparation, and continuing education options. These learning opportunities typically focus on building foundational skills that individuals can apply in future employment situations.

Support services complement educational offerings through targeted assistance programs. The prisoner reentry initiative may help individuals develop transition plans and connect with community resources before release. Physical fitness opportunities often promote health and wellness while providing constructive outlets for stress management. Also, community resource connections typically link individuals with local organizations that can provide ongoing support for housing, employment, and other essential services after their return to the community.

Daily Life & Visitation

Structured programming schedules actively shape much of the experience for individuals housed at Ottawa County Jail, with various activities offering stability throughout each day. At present, the facility maintains a routine that typically begins with early morning counts and meal service, followed by scheduled programming blocks that may include educational sessions, counseling groups, or work assignments. The daily structure generally alternates between mandatory activities and designated periods for personal time, recreation, and communication with family members.

Living accommodations typically consist of shared housing units where individuals are assigned based on classification levels and security considerations. The facility generally provides basic furnishings including beds, storage areas, and shared common spaces within each unit. Also, individuals may access commissary services to purchase approved personal items and food products, though availability often depends on account balances and facility policies. Personal property is usually limited to essential items and must meet specific security guidelines.

However, the facility offers various programs designed to provide structure and skill development opportunities during incarceration. Recreation periods typically include access to exercise areas, television viewing, and reading materials from the facility library. Visitation policies generally allow scheduled visits with family members and approved contacts, while communication options may include phone calls and written correspondence. Work assignments within the facility often provide individuals with daily responsibilities such as food service, cleaning duties, or maintenance tasks, which can offer both structure and potential earning opportunities for commissary purchases.