How Pierce County Jail’s Mail Scanning System Works (and why originals aren’t returned)
Mailing letters, photos, or other paper items to someone at Pierce County Jail? Plan for them to receive a scanned copy, not the original. Since April 2020, the jail has used a scan-and-shred process for incoming mail. That changes what your loved one can actually keep in hand.
Pierce County Jail changed how it processes inmate mail starting April 15, 2020. Under this policy, original incoming mail gets scanned, and only the scanned copies are forwarded to the inmate. Sending a handwritten note, a one-of-a-kind photo, or a card someone signed? Your loved one will only see it as a copy.
Originals are not returned: After incoming mail is scanned, the original contents are shredded. Don’t send anything you need back.
Legal mail is the major exception. Correspondence between an inmate and their attorney, or between the inmate and the court, gets treated differently than regular mail when it pertains to the person's case. If you are helping someone communicate with their attorney or the court, clearly label it as legal mail so it is recognized appropriately.
Correct addressing is one of the easiest ways to prevent delays. Pierce County Jail asks you to include the inmate's full name and booking ID number, then use this facility address: (Inmate's full name) (Inmate's Booking ID #) 910 Tacoma Ave. S. Tacoma, WA 98402 That booking number matters. Include it on all correspondence so mail can be matched to the right person.
- ✓ Put your full return address on the envelope (mail must include the sender’s return address).
Expect mail to be inspected. Pierce County Jail opens both incoming and outgoing mail to intercept cash, checks, and money orders, and to check for contraband. Even if your letter is harmless, the envelope and contents can still be opened as part of screening.
If something is considered contraband, the outcome can go beyond a simple rejection. The jail states that contraband may result in the envelope and contents being returned to the sender, or it may be investigated for criminal violation. If your mail gets sent back or you are concerned something crossed a line, follow up promptly to understand what happened and what to do differently next time.
Level-based restrictions: Inmates classified as Level 1 or Level 2 are not allowed outside books, magazines, newspapers, or clipped articles unless they directly pertain to their cases.
If you have questions about inmate mail, returned items, or what is allowed, call Pierce County Custody at (253) 798-4590 or (253) 798-4668.
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