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 Rock Island County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Rock Island 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 Rock Island County Jail.

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

   Mailing address:

   Rock Island County Jail
   1317 3rd Ave
   Rock Island, IL 61201
   Phone: (309) 794-1230

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Thursday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Saturday: Closed
   • Sunday: Closed

5. What are the visiting hours at Rock Island County Jail?

   Visiting hours at Rock Island 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 (309) 794-1230 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 Rock Island 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 Rock Island County Jail for their specific mail policies.

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

   You can send money to an inmate at Rock Island 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 Rock Island County Jail?

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

Educational services form the foundation of rehabilitation efforts, with residents typically having access to basic literacy programs and GED preparation courses. The facility often emphasizes skill-building as a pathway to successful reintegration, recognizing that many individuals benefit from structured learning environments during their time in custody. These initiatives may deliver both individual tutoring and group instruction, allowing residents to progress at their own pace while building confidence in academic settings.

Vocational programs complement educational offerings by providing hands-on training in practical skills that residents can apply upon release. These initiatives often include basic computer literacy, job readiness workshops, and trade-related instruction that may help participants develop marketable abilities. Furthermore, library services typically support both educational and recreational needs, offering residents access to books, legal resources, and materials that encourage continued learning throughout their stay.

Therapeutic initiatives address the underlying factors that may contribute to criminal behavior, with mental health treatment services often available to residents who need psychological support. Cognitive behavioral therapy sessions may help participants develop better decision-making skills and coping strategies for managing stress and conflict. Restorative justice initiatives typically focus on accountability and healing, providing opportunities for residents to understand the impact of their actions while working toward positive behavioral changes that benefit both themselves and their communities.

Daily Life & Visitation

Structured schedules at present actively guide every aspect of residential life, with consistent wake-up calls, meal times, and programmed activities that deliver predictability throughout each day. Residents typically follow established routines that include designated periods for meals, recreation, educational programming, and rest, creating a framework that many find helps maintain stability during their stay. These schedules generally incorporate time for personal hygiene, facility maintenance duties, and structured group activities that promote positive interaction among residents.

Furthermore, living accommodations typically consist of shared housing units where residents maintain personal spaces within dormitory-style or cell-based arrangements. Meals are usually served in designated dining areas at regular intervals, with menus that aim to provide balanced nutrition while accommodating basic dietary restrictions. The facility generally offers recreational opportunities that may include television viewing areas, reading materials, and exercise periods, though these activities operate within security protocols appropriate for the facility's classification level.

Although movement throughout the facility requires supervision, residents typically have access to various programming options that may include educational classes, vocational training, or counseling services designed to support personal development. Visitation policies generally allow for scheduled visits with family members and approved contacts, while communication options often include monitored telephone access and mail services. Work assignments within the facility may provide residents with structured responsibilities such as kitchen duties, cleaning tasks, or maintenance support, contributing to the overall operation while offering purposeful daily activities that help maintain routine and structure.