Penmate Inmate Support Guides

What Level 1 and Level 2 Inmates at Pierce County Jail Can't Receive in the Mail

If your loved one is classified as Level 1 or Level 2 at Pierce County Jail, certain types of mail get turned away. Here's what to avoid sending, what happens when something gets rejected, and how to check before you waste money on postage.

• 2 min read • piercecountywa.gov
What Level 1 and Level 2 Inmates at Pierce County Jail Can't Receive in the Mail

Inmates classified as Level 1 or Level 2 at Pierce County Jail can't receive books, magazines, newspapers, or clipped articles from outside sources. The one exception: material that directly relates to their case. Planning to mail reading material? Assume it'll be refused unless it's clearly case-related.

Note: Legal mail is treated differently when it’s clearly identified as mail between the client and their attorney or the court and it pertains to the case.

Pierce County Jail opens both incoming and outgoing mail. Staff check for cash, checks, money orders, and contraband. Even ordinary letters may be reviewed as part of standard security procedures.

If it’s contraband: The envelope and its contents may be returned to you, or it may be investigated as a criminal violation.

One more thing: the jail scans all incoming mail. Since April 15, 2020, original letters are scanned and the copies go to the inmate. The originals get shredded.

What Level 1 and Level 2 Inmates at Pierce County Jail Can't Receive in the Mail
  1. Put the booking number on everything you send - Include the inmate’s booking number on all correspondence to help ensure accurate delivery.
  2. Call to confirm classification or ask a mail question - Contact Pierce County Custody at (253) 798-4590 or Administration at (253) 798-4668 before you mail anything you’re unsure about.

Always include your return address on the envelope. Pierce County Jail requires it on all mail.

For Level 1 or Level 2 inmates, skip the books, magazines, newspapers, and clipped articles unless they're directly related to the case. Even then, check with Custody or Administration first to confirm what's allowed. Remember: mail gets opened and inspected, and anything flagged as contraband can be returned to you - or trigger an investigation.

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