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 Raymond Laborde Correctional Center.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Raymond Laborde Correctional Center 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 Raymond Laborde Correctional Center.

Frequently asked questions about Raymond Laborde Correctional Center

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 Raymond Laborde Correctional Center.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Raymond Laborde Correctional Center?

   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 Raymond Laborde Correctional Center?

   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 Raymond Laborde Correctional Center. 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 Raymond Laborde Correctional Center. 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 Raymond Laborde Correctional Center?

   Mailing address:

   Raymond Laborde Correctional Center
   1630 Prison Rd
   Cottonport, LA 71327
   Phone: (318) 876-2891

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
   • Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
   • Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
   • Thursday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
   • Friday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
   • Saturday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
   • Sunday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM

5. What are the visiting hours at Raymond Laborde Correctional Center?

   Visiting hours at Raymond Laborde Correctional Center 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 (318) 876-2891 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 Raymond Laborde Correctional Center?

   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 Raymond Laborde Correctional Center for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Raymond Laborde Correctional Center?

   You can send money to an inmate at Raymond Laborde Correctional Center 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 Raymond Laborde Correctional Center?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Raymond Laborde Correctional Center, 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 Raymond Laborde Correctional Center?

   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 Raymond Laborde Correctional Center 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 Raymond Laborde Correctional Center, 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

Multiple pathways for personal development and skill-building form the foundation of opportunities at Raymond Laborde Corrections. The facility typically emphasizes a comprehensive approach that addresses various aspects of individual growth, from practical job skills to personal wellness. This multifaceted programming model often allows individuals to participate in several different types of opportunities simultaneously, creating a well-rounded experience that may support both immediate needs and long-term goals.

Educational and vocational opportunities often serve as core components of the facility’s programming structure. Education programs may include basic literacy instruction, GED preparation, and adult education courses that help individuals build fundamental academic skills. In addition to this, vocational training opportunities typically focus on developing marketable job skills in various trades and industries. These hands-on programs often provide practical experience that may translate directly to employment opportunities upon release.

Support services and therapeutic opportunities typically complement the educational and vocational components through a range of personal development programs. Faith-based services often provide spiritual guidance and community connection for interested individuals. Peer support groups may offer structured environments where participants can share experiences and build positive relationships. The facility may also offer specialized training opportunities such as barbering and cosmetology programs, which can lead to professional certification. Chaplaincy programs typically provide additional counseling and spiritual support, while janitorial services training often teaches valuable maintenance and cleaning skills that are widely applicable in the job market.

Daily Life & Visitation

The sound of morning announcements now marks the beginning of each day for individuals at Raymond Laborde Correctional Center, as they prepare for a structured routine that typically includes work assignments, meals, and various programming opportunities. Daily schedules generally follow a consistent pattern, with individuals regularly participating in facility operations through kitchen duties, maintenance work, or administrative support roles. Count times occur throughout the day to ensure accountability, while supervised movement between housing units and program areas maintains security protocols.

Living accommodations typically consist of dormitory-style housing units where individuals share common areas and sleeping quarters. Personal property allowances generally include basic hygiene items, approved clothing, and limited personal effects that can be stored in designated areas. Meals are usually served in a central dining facility at scheduled times, with menu options that meet basic nutritional requirements. In addition to this, commissary services may offer additional food items and personal care products for purchase.

Recreation opportunities often include outdoor exercise periods, television viewing in common areas, and access to library materials when available. Despite this structured environment, individuals can typically maintain family connections through scheduled visitation periods and monitored phone calls. Educational programming and substance abuse counseling may offer additional structure for those seeking personal development opportunities. Work assignments generally provide individuals with daily responsibilities while contributing to facility operations, creating a sense of purpose within the correctional setting.