How to send messages, photos, and packages
Pleasant Valley State Prison uses Securus as CDCR's communications provider. Telephone calls, video calls, and electronic messaging are rolling out starting in September. You can receive standard phone calls without creating an online account—helpful if you just need to stay reachable. Video calls and electronic messaging require a Securus account once those services go live. Securus Video Connect is web-based, letting you schedule and join sessions from an app, computer, or tablet. For tablet rollout timing and cost details, Securus directs families to the CDCR tablets page. If you plan to use video visits or messaging, set up your account ahead of time and be ready to add prepaid funds when those options become available.
Search for a loved one and send messages and photos in minutes.
Securus says telephone calls, video calls, and electronic messaging will be implemented starting in September.
No—an online Securus account isn’t required to receive free telephone calls. You will need a Securus account for video calls and electronic messaging once those services are available.
Video visits use Securus Video Connect, a web-based system that lets you schedule and join sessions from an app, computer, or tablet. Create a Securus account and be ready to add prepaid funds when video visiting goes live.
The CDCR family-resources page for Pleasant Valley State Prison returned only a loading message, so specific mail and package rules weren't available. If the facility page is incomplete, check official CDCR resources or the facility's published family information before sending anything.
Incoming and outgoing mail is routinely inspected and screened for contraband. Legal mail receives special handling and is not read by staff during contraband inspections.
The source didn't include Pleasant Valley State Prison's specific package rules, so book acceptance and vendor requirements couldn't be confirmed. Generally, books must come directly from approved vendors or publishers. Photos are commonly limited by size and number, and Polaroids typically aren't allowed.
Setting up video visits can feel like a lot the first time around. But once your GTL VisitMe account is claimed, you can book a time slot online and get confirmation instantly.
Pleasant Valley State Prison is switching phone and tablet communications to Securus on a set schedule. Here are the exact dates, what's changing, and how to prepare so you're not caught off guard.
Pleasant Valley State Prison switches to Securus phone service on 3/16, with tablets following 3/17–3/20. Set up your account now and you'll be ready to register for video and add funds before the transition—no last-minute scrambling required.
