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 Rankin County Sheriff's Office.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Rankin County Sheriff's Office 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 Rankin County Sheriff's Office.

Frequently asked questions about Rankin County Sheriff's Office

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 Rankin County Sheriff's Office.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Rankin County Sheriff's Office?

   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 Rankin County Sheriff's Office?

   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 Rankin County Sheriff's Office. 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 Rankin County Sheriff's Office. 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 Rankin County Sheriff's Office?

   Mailing address:

   Rankin County Sheriff's Office
   221 N Timber St
   Brandon, MS 39042
   Phone: (601) 825-1480

   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 Rankin County Sheriff's Office?

   Visiting hours at Rankin County Sheriff's Office 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 (601) 825-1480 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 Rankin County Sheriff's Office?

   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 Rankin County Sheriff's Office for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Rankin County Sheriff's Office?

   You can send money to an inmate at Rankin County Sheriff's Office 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 Rankin County Sheriff's Office?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Rankin County Sheriff's Office, 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 Rankin County Sheriff's Office?

   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 Rankin County Sheriff's Office 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 Rankin County Sheriff's Office, 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

Personal growth and skill development remain central to the daily operations at Rankin County Jail. Those incarcerated typically have access to structured opportunities designed to build practical abilities and prepare individuals for successful community reintegration. The facility often emphasizes creating a secure environment where participants can focus on developing both technical skills and personal responsibility through hands-on learning experiences.

Educational offerings may include basic literacy programs and vocational training opportunities that provide practical knowledge. Those incarcerated often participate in electrical work training, which teaches fundamental wiring and maintenance skills applicable in various employment settings. Also available are forklift operation courses that provide certification in equipment handling, along with facility maintenance programs where participants learn building upkeep, repair techniques, and general construction skills.

Support services typically encompass work release programs that allow eligible individuals to maintain employment while serving their sentences. Faith-based programs may furnish spiritual guidance and community connection for those seeking religious support during their incarceration. Also offered are agriculture programs where participants can develop farming skills, animal care knowledge, and outdoor work experience that often proves valuable for future employment opportunities in rural communities.

Daily Life & Visitation

Family connections and social bonds remain central to how those incarcerated at Rankin County Jail navigate their daily experiences. The facility now operates on structured schedules that regularly incorporate opportunities for maintaining relationships with loved ones. Those incarcerated typically begin their days with morning counts and meal service, followed by scheduled programming that may include educational classes, counseling sessions, or work assignments that furnish both structure and social interaction.

Living accommodations generally consist of shared housing units where residents develop supportive relationships with their peers. The facility typically provides dormitory-style or cell-based housing depending on classification levels. Meals are usually served in common dining areas, creating natural opportunities for social interaction and community building. Also, recreational periods often include access to dayrooms, television viewing areas, and outdoor recreation when weather permits, allowing those incarcerated to maintain physical wellness while connecting with others.

Work assignments within the facility may include kitchen duties, maintenance tasks, or administrative support roles that help residents develop job skills while contributing to daily operations. Visitation policies typically allow for regular contact with family members and friends, while phone privileges and correspondence help maintain crucial outside connections. However, all communication and visitation procedures follow established security protocols. The facility generally offers commissary services where those incarcerated can purchase personal items and snacks, often funded by support from family members who recognize the importance of these small comforts in maintaining morale and connection to the outside community.