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 Peoria County Sheriff's Office.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Peoria County Sheriff's Office 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 Peoria County Sheriff's Office.

Frequently asked questions about Peoria County Sheriff's Office

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 Peoria County Sheriff's Office.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Peoria County Sheriff's Office?

   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 Peoria County Sheriff's Office?

   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 Peoria County Sheriff's Office. 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 Peoria County Sheriff's Office. 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 Peoria County Sheriff's Office?

   Mailing address:

   Peoria County Sheriff's Office
   301 N Maxwell Rd
   Peoria, IL 61604
   Phone: (309) 697-8515

5. What are the visiting hours at Peoria County Sheriff's Office?

   Visiting hours at Peoria County Sheriff's Office 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 (309) 697-8515 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 Peoria County Sheriff's Office?

   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 Peoria County Sheriff's Office for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Peoria County Sheriff's Office?

   You can send money to an inmate at Peoria County Sheriff's Office 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 Peoria County Sheriff's Office?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Peoria County Sheriff's Office, 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 Peoria County Sheriff's Office?

   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 Peoria County Sheriff's Office 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 Peoria County Sheriff's Office, 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

Within the walls of Peoria County Jail, a multifaceted approach to individual development recognizes that meaningful change requires diverse pathways tailored to varied needs and circumstances. The facility's comprehensive programming philosophy emphasizes that effective rehabilitation emerges through the intersection of education, skill development, and therapeutic intervention, creating a framework where individuals can address underlying challenges while simultaneously building foundations for future success.

Educational opportunities form a cornerstone of the facility's developmental approach, with services that may include basic literacy instruction, GED preparation, and college correspondence courses for those seeking to advance their academic credentials. These educational pathways often complement vocational training opportunities that provide hands-on experience in practical trades such as masonry and food service operations. Additionally, these skill-building initiatives typically emphasize both technical competency and workplace readiness, preparing individuals for potential employment opportunities upon their release while fostering a sense of purpose and accomplishment during their incarceration.

The facility's commitment to comprehensive programming extends beyond educational and vocational domains to encompass therapeutic interventions that address the complex factors contributing to criminal behavior. Mental health treatment services may offer individual and group counseling opportunities, helping participants develop coping strategies and address underlying psychological challenges. Additionally, various support services often complement these therapeutic interventions, creating an integrated approach that recognizes the interconnected nature of personal growth, skill development, and behavioral change in facilitating successful community reintegration.

Daily Life & Visitation

The rhythmic sound of meal carts rolling through housing units signals one of several structured moments that punctuate each day for individuals housed within the facility. At present, the Peoria County Jail actively maintains a routine that typically begins in the early morning hours with headcount procedures, followed by breakfast service and various scheduled activities throughout the day. Individuals generally experience a structured environment where meals, programming, and recreation periods offer predictable anchors in their daily experience, though the specific schedule may vary depending on housing assignment and security classification.

Living accommodations within the facility typically consist of housing units designed to accommodate multiple individuals, with dormitory-style arrangements being common in many areas. While personal space may be limited, individuals usually have access to basic amenities including bedding, personal hygiene items, and designated storage areas for approved personal property. The facility generally provides three meals daily, often served in housing units or designated dining areas, with menu options that aim to meet basic nutritional requirements and accommodate certain dietary restrictions when medically necessary.

Additionally, the facility typically offers various programs and activities designed to provide structure and maintain connections with the outside community. Individuals may have opportunities to participate in educational programming, religious services, or recreational activities when available and appropriate for their housing classification. Visitation policies generally allow for scheduled visits with family members and approved visitors, while communication options often include telephone access and mail correspondence, helping individuals maintain important relationships during their time at the facility. Work assignments within the facility may be available for eligible individuals, potentially including tasks such as food service assistance, cleaning duties, or other maintenance-related responsibilities that contribute to daily operations.