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 Rockcastle County Detention Center.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Rockcastle County Detention 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 Rockcastle County Detention Center.

Frequently asked questions about Rockcastle County Detention 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 Rockcastle County Detention Center.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Rockcastle County Detention 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 Rockcastle County Detention 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 Rockcastle County Detention 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 Rockcastle County Detention 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 Rockcastle County Detention Center?

   Mailing address:

   Rockcastle County Detention Center
   205 E Main St
   Mt Vernon, KY 40456
   Phone: (606) 256-2178

   Business hours:

   • Monday: Open 24 hours
   • Tuesday: Open 24 hours
   • Wednesday: Open 24 hours
   • Thursday: Open 24 hours
   • Friday: Open 24 hours
   • Saturday: Open 24 hours
   • Sunday: Open 24 hours

5. What are the visiting hours at Rockcastle County Detention Center?

   Visiting hours at Rockcastle County Detention 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 (606) 256-2178 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 Rockcastle County Detention 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 Rockcastle County Detention Center for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Rockcastle County Detention Center?

   You can send money to an inmate at Rockcastle County Detention 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 Rockcastle County Detention Center?

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

Based on the facility's mission to "provide opportunities for inmates to acquire skills which facilitate non-criminal behaviour and become productive citizens," Rockcastle County Detention Center appears to emphasize rehabilitation alongside security. While the website mentions inmate services as part of their offerings, the facility typically may provide educational programs that help individuals work toward their GED or improve basic literacy skills. Vocational training opportunities might include job readiness workshops, computer skills development, or trade-related instruction designed to prepare inmates for employment upon release.

The detention center likely offers various counseling and support services to address underlying issues that may contribute to criminal behavior. These programs often include substance abuse counseling, anger management classes, and mental health support services. Religious services and spiritual counseling may also be available to provide additional emotional and moral support during incarceration. The facility's commitment to creating a "safe, secure, and humane environment" suggests they may prioritize programs that promote personal growth and positive behavioral changes.

Given Kentucky's focus on rehabilitation within correctional settings, Rockcastle County Detention Center may also provide life skills programming that covers topics such as financial literacy, parenting classes, and reentry preparation services. These programs typically aim to reduce recidivism by equipping individuals with practical tools and coping strategies needed for successful community reintegration. Medical and dental services are likely available to address basic healthcare needs, while library services and recreational activities may be offered to support mental well-being and constructive use of time during detention.

Daily Life & Visitation

The Rockcastle County Detention Center operates under a mission focused on providing a safe, secure, and humane environment for both inmates and staff while working to help individuals acquire skills that facilitate non-criminal behavior. Under the supervision of Jailer Nathan Carter, the facility maintains structured daily operations designed to balance security requirements with opportunities for personal development. Inmates typically follow established schedules that may include meal times, recreation periods, and various programming activities, though specific routines can vary based on housing assignments and individual circumstances.

Communication with family and friends remains an important aspect of life at the facility, with the detention center typically offering various methods for inmates to maintain contact with their support networks. Visitation policies and phone access are generally structured to provide meaningful connections while maintaining security protocols. The facility's commitment to helping inmates become productive citizens often includes access to educational opportunities, skill-building programs, and other services designed to support successful reintegration into the community.

The detention center emphasizes that circumstances may change without notice due to legal requirements, emergencies, or facility rules, reflecting the dynamic nature of correctional operations. Staff work to maintain a balance between security needs and humane treatment, following guidelines established by Kentucky law and court mandates. While daily life in any correctional facility involves significant structure and limitations, the center's stated mission suggests a focus on creating an environment that serves both public safety and individual rehabilitation goals.