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 Riverside Regional Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Riverside Regional Jail 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 Riverside Regional Jail.

Frequently asked questions about Riverside Regional Jail

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 Riverside Regional Jail.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Riverside Regional Jail?

   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 Riverside Regional Jail?

   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 Riverside Regional Jail. 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 Riverside Regional Jail. 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 Riverside Regional Jail?

   Mailing address:

   Riverside Regional Jail
   500 Folar Trl
   N Prince George, VA 23860
   Phone: (804) 524-6600

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
   • Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
   • Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
   • Thursday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
   • Friday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
   • Saturday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
   • Sunday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM

5. What are the visiting hours at Riverside Regional Jail?

   Visiting hours at Riverside Regional Jail 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 (804) 524-6600 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 Riverside Regional Jail?

   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 Riverside Regional Jail for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Riverside Regional Jail?

   You can send money to an inmate at Riverside Regional Jail 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 Riverside Regional Jail?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Riverside Regional Jail, 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 Riverside Regional Jail?

   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 Riverside Regional Jail 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 Riverside Regional Jail, 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

Cognitive behavioral initiatives form the foundation of rehabilitation efforts, helping residents develop essential life skills and address underlying behavioral patterns. These evidence-based approaches typically focus on changing thought processes that may contribute to criminal behavior. Residents often participate in structured sessions that teach problem-solving techniques and emotional regulation strategies.

Educational initiatives may deliver basic literacy instruction, GED preparation, and adult learning opportunities to residents seeking academic advancement. Vocational training programs often include hands-on instruction in marketable skills, with forklift operation being one practical certification residents can pursue. These skill-building opportunities typically prepare participants for employment upon release while building confidence and work readiness.

Support services also encompass specialized therapeutic initiatives designed to address specific behavioral concerns. Sex offender treatment programs may provide intensive counseling and behavioral modification techniques for eligible residents. Conflict resolution training typically teaches residents effective communication strategies and anger management skills. These comprehensive initiatives often work together to address the complex factors that may contribute to criminal behavior while promoting personal growth and community reintegration.

Daily Life & Visitation

Structure currently governs every aspect of the daily experience, with residents following established routines that begin early each morning and continue through evening hours. Wake-up calls typically occur before dawn, followed by facility counts, personal hygiene time, and preparation for the day ahead. Meal service generally operates on a fixed schedule, with residents moving to designated dining areas for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Work assignments deliver additional structure throughout the day, as residents may participate in facility maintenance, kitchen duties, laundry operations, or other institutional jobs that help maintain daily operations.

Housing units at Riverside Regional Jail typically accommodate multiple residents in dormitory-style or cell-based arrangements, depending on classification levels and available space. Personal property allowances generally include basic clothing items, limited personal hygiene products, and approved reading materials. Also, residents usually have access to commissary services where they may purchase additional food items, toiletries, and other approved personal items using funds from their institutional accounts. Recreation periods often provide opportunities for physical exercise, television viewing, and social interaction within designated common areas.

Structured programming schedules may include educational classes, substance abuse counseling, religious services, and other rehabilitative activities designed to support personal development. Visitation policies typically allow residents to maintain contact with family members and approved visitors during scheduled visiting hours, while telephone access generally enables regular communication with loved ones. However, all communication and visitation activities operate under established security protocols and scheduling requirements. Also, residents often participate in various programs that deliver both structure and skill-building opportunities throughout their stay at the facility.