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 Rowan County Detention Center.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Rowan 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 Rowan County Detention Center.

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

   Mailing address:

   Rowan County Detention Center
   1075 S Tolliver Rd
   Morehead, KY 40351
   Phone: (606) 784-8457

   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 Rowan County Detention Center?

   Visiting hours at Rowan 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) 784-8457 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 Rowan 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 Rowan County Detention Center for their specific mail policies.

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

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

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

The Rowan County Detention Center emphasizes quality programming designed to enrich the lives of offenders and reduce recidivism, reflecting a commitment that extends beyond basic incarceration. Under the leadership of County Jailer Wes Coldiron, the facility operates with a mission to provide a safe, secure, and humane environment while offering meaningful opportunities for personal growth and development. The center's approach to inmate services recognizes that effective rehabilitation requires comprehensive support systems that address various aspects of an individual's needs during their time in custody.

Educational and vocational programming typically forms the foundation of the facility's rehabilitative efforts. Inmates may have access to basic literacy courses, GED preparation classes, and educational materials to help them develop essential academic skills. The facility may also offer vocational training opportunities that could include basic job skills development, computer literacy, and workforce readiness programs designed to improve employment prospects upon release. These educational initiatives often work in conjunction with counseling services that may address substance abuse issues, anger management, and life skills development.

Support services at the detention center likely include religious programming, where inmates may participate in worship services, Bible studies, and spiritual counseling provided by local faith-based organizations. The facility may also coordinate with community partners to offer additional resources such as mental health counseling, family support services, and reentry planning assistance. Recreational activities and library services typically complement these programs, providing inmates with constructive ways to spend their time while developing positive social interactions and maintaining physical and mental well-being throughout their incarceration.

Daily Life & Visitation

The Rowan County Detention Center operates with structured visiting hours Monday through Friday from 8AM to 4PM, providing inmates and their families regular opportunities to maintain important connections during incarceration. Located at 1075 S. Tolliver Rd. in Morehead, Kentucky, the facility operates under the leadership of County Jailer Wes Coldiron, who emphasizes the center's mission to provide a safe, secure and humane environment for all residents and visitors.

Inmates at the detention center typically follow a structured daily routine that may include scheduled meal times, recreational periods, and access to various programs designed to support rehabilitation. The facility strives to offer quality programming aimed at enriching the lives of offenders with the specific goal of reducing recidivism. Daily activities often include opportunities for education, counseling services, and work assignments that help maintain the facility's operations while providing inmates with valuable skills and structure.

Communication with family and friends remains an important aspect of daily life, with the facility likely offering telephone access during designated hours and mail services following standard correctional protocols. The detention center's commitment to providing a humane environment extends to ensuring inmates have access to basic necessities, medical care when needed, and recreational time. Visitors conducting business at the facility can expect professional treatment in accordance with the center's mission to serve both the incarcerated population and the broader Rowan County community safely and effectively.