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 Platte County Sheriff Department.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Platte 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 Platte County Sheriff Department.

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

   Mailing address:

   Platte County Sheriff Department
   850 Maple St
   Wheatland, WY 82201
   Phone: (307) 322-2331

   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 Platte County Sheriff Department?

   Visiting hours at Platte 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 (307) 322-2331 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 Platte 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 Platte County Sheriff Department for their specific mail policies.

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

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

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Platte 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 Platte 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 Platte 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 Platte 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

From basic literacy courses to specialized vocational certifications, the breadth of developmental opportunities at Platte County Detention Center reflects a commitment to addressing diverse individual needs. The facility typically recognizes that meaningful change requires multiple pathways for growth and skill development. This comprehensive approach may offer individuals various avenues to build practical abilities while addressing personal challenges that contribute to successful community reintegration.

Educational opportunities often include fundamental literacy programs and GED preparation courses designed to help individuals complete their basic education. Vocational training may provide hands-on experience in trades and technical skills that align with regional employment demands. These structured learning environments typically emphasize practical skill development that individuals can apply upon release. Also, work programs may offer opportunities to develop professional habits and work experience within the facility setting.

Support services often encompass a range of therapeutic and practical opportunities tailored to individual circumstances. Grief counseling may provide essential emotional support for individuals processing loss and trauma. Also, domestic violence programs typically address relationship patterns and conflict resolution skills. Agriculture programs may offer both vocational training and therapeutic benefits through outdoor work and responsibility. Time management opportunities often help individuals develop organizational skills and daily structure that support successful transitions back to community life.

Daily Life & Visitation

The sound of morning announcements typically marks the beginning of each day for individuals housed at the Platte County Detention Center. Today's routine generally follows a structured schedule that includes designated times for meals, programming, and recreation, with staff consistently maintaining security protocols throughout all activities. Individuals usually participate in count procedures several times daily, which help ensure accountability while allowing for organized movement between different areas of the facility.

Living accommodations at the facility typically consist of housing units designed to manage different classification levels of individuals. Each housing area generally includes basic furnishings and personal storage space, though the amount of personal property individuals may keep varies according to facility policies. Also, the facility usually operates a commissary system that allows individuals to purchase approved items to supplement their basic needs, providing some personal choice within the structured environment.

Programming opportunities often include educational classes, substance abuse counseling, and work assignments that may involve facility maintenance or kitchen duties. However, participation in various programs typically depends on factors such as security classification and behavior. Visitation policies generally allow family members to maintain contact through scheduled visits, while communication options usually include monitored phone calls and correspondence. Also, recreational activities typically offer structured physical exercise and leisure time, helping individuals maintain both physical and mental well-being during their stay at the facility.