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 Owen County Sheriff Department.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Owen County Sheriff Department 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 Owen County Sheriff Department.

Frequently asked questions about Owen County Sheriff Department

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 Owen County Sheriff Department.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Owen County Sheriff Department?

   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 Owen County Sheriff Department?

   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 Owen County Sheriff Department. 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 Owen County Sheriff Department. 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 Owen County Sheriff Department?

   Mailing address:

   Owen County Sheriff Department
   291 Vandalia Ave
   Spencer, IN 47460
   Phone: (812) 829-5757

   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 Owen County Sheriff Department?

   Visiting hours at Owen County Sheriff Department 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 (812) 829-5757 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 Owen County Sheriff Department?

   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 Owen County Sheriff Department for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Owen County Sheriff Department?

   You can send money to an inmate at Owen County Sheriff Department 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 Owen County Sheriff Department?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Owen County Sheriff Department, 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 Owen County Sheriff Department?

   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 Owen County Sheriff Department 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 Owen County Sheriff Department, 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

Personal growth begins with access to meaningful opportunities that address individual needs and circumstances. Owen County Jail typically emphasizes a comprehensive approach to inmate development, recognizing that successful reintegration often depends on addressing multiple areas of personal growth. The facility may provide various services designed to help inmates develop practical skills, address underlying issues, and build stronger foundations for their futures.

Educational services often form a cornerstone of personal development efforts, with inmates having opportunities to work toward completing their high school education or improving basic literacy skills. Vocational training may include hands-on learning experiences that prepare participants for employment upon release. Also, culinary arts training typically provides practical skills that can translate directly into job opportunities in the food service industry, giving inmates marketable abilities they can use to support themselves and their families.

Support services address the emotional and psychological aspects of personal growth through various therapeutic approaches. Faith-based services may offer spiritual guidance and community support for those seeking this type of assistance. Also, parenting classes typically help inmates develop better relationships with their children and learn effective parenting strategies. Trauma-informed care services often provide specialized support for those dealing with past experiences that may have contributed to their current circumstances. Building maintenance training may also be available, offering practical skills while contributing to facility operations and providing valuable work experience.

Daily Life & Visitation

The housing units at Owen County Jail feature dormitory-style accommodations and individual cells that shape much of inmates' daily experiences. Inmates now follow structured schedules that typically begin with early morning counts and meal service. The day regularly includes designated times for hygiene, recreation, and various programming activities that provide routine and purpose.

Living spaces generally accommodate multiple inmates per unit, with shared common areas for dining and television viewing. Personal property allowances typically include basic hygiene items, limited clothing, and approved reading materials. Also, inmates may access commissary services to purchase additional approved items like snacks and personal care products. However, all personal belongings must comply with facility security guidelines and storage limitations.

Programming opportunities often include educational classes, substance abuse counseling, and work assignments within the facility such as kitchen duties or maintenance tasks. Recreation time usually provides access to indoor exercise areas and may include outdoor activities when weather permits. Visitation typically occurs on scheduled days, allowing inmates to maintain family connections through in-person visits or video calling systems. Also, inmates generally have access to telephone services during designated hours to communicate with approved contacts, helping them maintain important relationships during their incarceration.