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 Roane County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Roane County 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 Roane County Jail.

Frequently asked questions about Roane County 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 Roane County Jail.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Roane County 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 Roane County 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 Roane County 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 Roane County 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 Roane County Jail?

   Mailing address:

   Roane County Jail
   230 N 3rd St
   Kingston, TN 37763
   Phone: (865) 376-5582

   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 Roane County Jail?

   Visiting hours at Roane County 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 (865) 376-5582 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 Roane County 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 Roane County Jail for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Roane County Jail?

   You can send money to an inmate at Roane County 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 Roane County Jail?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Roane County 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 Roane County 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 Roane County 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 Roane County 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

Through comprehensive support services, the population at Roane County Jail receives assistance designed to address both immediate needs and long-term reintegration goals. The facility's approach emphasizes personal development and skill-building through various programs that help individuals prepare for successful community reentry. These supportive services typically focus on addressing underlying issues while building practical capabilities that can benefit participants both during their stay and after release.

Educational services form a cornerstone of the supportive programming, often including basic literacy instruction and GED preparation to help the population advance their academic credentials. Vocational programs may supply practical job training in various trades and technical skills, helping participants develop marketable abilities for future employment opportunities. Also available are specialized training opportunities such as forklift operation certification, which can provide direct pathways to employment in warehousing and logistics industries upon release.

The facility typically offers therapeutic support through cognitive behavioral therapy sessions, which help the population develop healthier thought patterns and coping strategies. Faith-based programs may provide spiritual guidance and community connection for those seeking religious support during their incarceration. Also included in the supportive services are stress management programs that teach practical techniques for handling difficult situations and emotions. These combined therapeutic and support services often emphasize building stronger family relationships and preparing individuals for successful community reintegration through improved personal skills and emotional wellness.

Daily Life & Visitation

Structured protocols and established routines form the backbone of daily operations, ensuring that the population at Roane County Jail maintains a predictable schedule throughout their stay. The facility currently operates on a system that divides the day into designated periods for meals, programming, and personal time. Count procedures continue to occur at regular intervals, providing accountability while allowing staff to monitor the wellbeing of all residents. Generally, the population wakes early for breakfast service, followed by housing unit cleaning assignments and structured activities.

Living accommodations typically consist of dormitory-style housing units and individual cells, depending on classification levels and available space. The population generally shares common areas within their designated housing sections, which may include dayrooms equipped with tables and seating for meals and activities. Personal property allowances usually include basic hygiene items, limited clothing, and approved personal effects stored according to facility guidelines. Also, commissary services supply additional comfort items and snacks that residents can purchase with funds from their accounts.

Programming schedules often include educational opportunities, substance abuse counseling, and religious services that help structure the weekly routine. Recreation periods typically provide access to outdoor areas or gymnasium facilities when weather and security conditions permit. However, visitation arrangements generally occur through scheduled appointments, allowing the population to maintain family connections through in-person visits or video conferencing systems. Work assignments within the facility may include kitchen duties, laundry services, and general maintenance tasks that supply both structure and skill development opportunities for participating residents.