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 Richmond County Correctional Institution.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Richmond County Correctional Institution 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 Richmond County Correctional Institution.

Frequently asked questions about Richmond County Correctional Institution

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 Richmond County Correctional Institution.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Richmond County Correctional Institution?

   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 Richmond County Correctional Institution?

   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 Richmond County Correctional Institution. 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 Richmond County Correctional Institution. 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 Richmond County Correctional Institution?

   Mailing address:

   Richmond County Correctional Institution
   2314 Tobacco Rd
   Augusta, GA 30906
   Phone: (706) 798-5572

5. What are the visiting hours at Richmond County Correctional Institution?

   Visiting hours at Richmond County Correctional Institution 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 (706) 798-5572 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 Richmond County Correctional Institution?

   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 Richmond County Correctional Institution for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Richmond County Correctional Institution?

   You can send money to an inmate at Richmond County Correctional Institution 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 Richmond County Correctional Institution?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Richmond County Correctional Institution, 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 Richmond County Correctional Institution?

   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 Richmond County Correctional Institution 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 Richmond County Correctional Institution, 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

Educational opportunities form a cornerstone of rehabilitation efforts at Richmond County Correctional Institution, with inmates able to pursue their General Education Diploma and develop Basic Computer Skills to enhance their prospects upon release. The facility's academic programming works alongside comprehensive counseling services, including specialized Re-Entry programs and Motivation For Change sessions designed to help individuals prepare for successful community reintegration.

Vocational training and on-the-job training opportunities provide practical skills development across multiple areas including Food Services, Laundry operations, Barbering, Construction, and Grounds-keeping and Horticulture. These hands-on programs often complement the facility's extensive work details that support various county departments, from Roads and Bridges maintenance to Parks and Recreation services, giving participants real-world experience while contributing to the broader Augusta/Richmond County community.

The institution typically maintains a well-rounded approach to inmate services, offering general recreation activities and various religious programming including worship services, Bible study groups, and Gospel groups. Additional support services may include medical care, mental health counseling, substance abuse programming, and library services, though specific details about these offerings would require direct confirmation with facility administrators. The facility's mission of providing housing for both state and county offenders while supporting local government operations reflects its dual role in corrections and community service.

Daily Life & Visitation

Residents at Richmond County Correctional Institution wake each morning in one of eight general dormitories that house the facility's 220-person capacity. The open dormitory setting, typical of medium-security facilities, means individuals share living spaces with multiple roommates, creating a community environment where daily routines revolve around structured schedules and shared responsibilities.

The workday often begins early, with many residents participating in work details that support Augusta and Richmond County government operations. These assignments may include maintenance work with Roads and Bridges, supporting the Department of Transportation, assisting Parks and Recreation departments, or helping with Animal Control services. Other residents might work at the landfill, assist with Trees and Landscaping projects, support the Board of Education, help the Fire Department, or work with the Department of Motor Vehicles. These work programs typically provide valuable job training while contributing to the local community's needs.

Educational and personal development activities fill much of the remaining day, with residents often participating in General Education Diploma classes or Basic Computer Skills training. The facility's programs may include Re-Entry and Motivation for Change counseling sessions, which help individuals prepare for their eventual return to the community. Vocational training opportunities in areas like Food Services, Laundry, Barbering, Construction, and Grounds-keeping provide practical skills, while religious activities such as worship services, Bible study, and gospel groups offer spiritual support. Recreation time allows for physical activity and social interaction, helping to maintain mental and physical well-being throughout their stay at the facility.