Question 1

Can corrections officers pass messages to an inmate in an emergency?

Accepted Answer

No. One Illinois jail states that corrections officers are unable to pass messages to inmates for any reason, including emergencies, so you should not rely on staff to deliver a message. If there is immediate danger, call 911, and for urgent but non-911 situations contact the facility directly.

Question 2

Are phone calls, video visits, and text messages recorded?

Accepted Answer

Yes, they can be. One Illinois county jail states that telephone calls, video visits, and text messages are recorded unless you are the person’s attorney or clergy and you have been cleared by the facility, and it also says all texting communications are recorded.

Question 3

How do I add money to an inmate's account and how long does it take to post?

Accepted Answer

The options depend on the facility, but examples in Illinois include a lobby kiosk that accepts cash and major credit cards, and adding funds through an automated vendor channel. For IDOC trust fund deposits, ViaPath states automated deposits through ConnectNetwork are transmitted to the facility within one business day. One county jail also describes a kiosk option at a visitation entrance and says it is accessible 24 hours a day.

Question 4

What payment types are accepted for bonding and are there special rules?

Accepted Answer

It can be very specific to the jail. One Illinois jail says it accepts bond 24/7, requires the person posting bond to be over 18 (or accompanied by a parent/legal guardian) and to have a government-issued photo ID, and it states cash in the largest logical denomination is the only form of legal tender accepted (no change or $1 bills).

Question 5

What can I send by mail and are photographs allowed?

Accepted Answer

Some facilities allow letters and standard photos, but they can also ban common extras. One Illinois jail says mail may contain standard or printed photographs and letters on common household stock, and it says mail may not contain items like stamps, stickers, cash, and certain photos. IDOC also states it is scanning and/or photocopying incoming non-privileged mail.

Question 6

How do I address mail to someone at Western Illinois Correctional Center?

Accepted Answer

Use the “Individual in Custody Mail” format listed by the facility: “Individual in Custody Name & IDOC#” on the first line, then “2500 Rt. 99 South,” then “Mount Sterling, IL 62353.” Western also lists its business mail address at the same street address in Mount Sterling.

Question 7

How do I schedule a visit at Logan or Western Illinois Correctional Center?

Accepted Answer

Both facilities state you must sign up in advance before visiting. For video visits, plan to log in 15 minutes early, Logan specifically tells visitors to log on 15 minutes before the scheduled start time. Some Illinois facilities also require video visits be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance, so build in a buffer and do not assume same-day availability.

Question 8

Can I visit an inmate while they are at court or a hospital?

Accepted Answer

Typically, no. One Illinois jail states officers will not permit contact with friends or family before, during, or after court appearances, and it also states family members and others are not permitted to visit inmates at any medical facility. If you think there is an exceptional situation, contact the facility for guidance.

Question 9

Are there limits on how many people I can visit or visit at once?

Accepted Answer

Yes, there can be limits. IDOC visitation rules state that visitors may only visit one incarcerated individual at a time unless they have prior written approval from the Chief Administrative Officer. IDOC also states visitors and incarcerated people cannot possess tobacco or tobacco-less products inside any IDOC facility.

Question 10

If I have problems scheduling or account questions for video visits, who should I call?

Accepted Answer

Start with the vendor that runs the video visit platform for that facility, since registration and scheduling issues are often handled through the vendor. For example, InmateSales lists a customer service number (702-829-3001). For general facility questions, you can also call the facility directly, for example Logan Correctional Center lists a phone number on its facility page.

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