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 Russell County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Russell 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 Russell County Jail.

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

   Mailing address:

   Russell County Jail
   307 Prentiss Dr
   Phenix City, AL 36869
   Phone: (334) 298-8621

   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 Russell County Jail?

   Visiting hours at Russell 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 (334) 298-8621 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 Russell 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 Russell County Jail for their specific mail policies.

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

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

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

Within the structured environment of Russell County Jail, those incarcerated encounter a comprehensive array of developmental opportunities designed to foster personal growth and prepare them for successful community reintegration. The facility’s approach emphasizes building essential life skills while maintaining the security and safety protocols necessary for effective correctional operations. These carefully structured offerings typically provide participants with meaningful ways to utilize their time constructively, developing competencies that may prove invaluable upon release.

Educational advancement forms a cornerstone of the facility’s developmental framework, with education programs often available to help those incarcerated strengthen their academic foundations or pursue new learning objectives. These structured learning environments may furnish opportunities for participants to develop critical thinking skills and expand their knowledge base within the secure confines of the facility. Also, work release initiatives typically provide eligible individuals with supervised opportunities to gain practical employment experience while maintaining their connection to the correctional system, fostering both personal responsibility and professional development.

The facility’s support services encompass a diverse range of therapeutic and skill-building offerings designed to address various aspects of personal development. Faith-based programs often provide spiritual guidance and community support, while grounds maintenance responsibilities may furnish participants with practical work experience and a sense of contribution to the facility’s operations. Communication skills development and healthy relationships training typically focus on building interpersonal competencies essential for successful social reintegration. Also, restorative justice initiatives may offer structured opportunities for those incarcerated to engage in meaningful reflection about their actions and their impact on others, promoting accountability and personal growth within the secure environment.

Daily Life & Visitation

Strong bonds with family members and supportive relationships with fellow residents form the cornerstone of the daily experience for those incarcerated at Russell County Jail. At present, the facility actively maintains structured routines that encourage social interaction while providing opportunities for individuals to stay connected with their support networks on the outside. The day typically begins with morning counts and meal service, followed by scheduled programming that may include educational classes, substance abuse counseling, or vocational training sessions that furnish both personal development and chances for meaningful peer interaction.

Living accommodations generally consist of dormitory-style housing units or smaller cells, depending on classification levels and available space within the facility. Those incarcerated typically share common areas where they can engage in conversation, watch television, or participate in recreational activities during designated periods. However, personal space remains limited, making respectful coexistence and communication skills essential for maintaining a harmonious environment. Meals are usually served in a central dining area, providing additional opportunities for social interaction and community building among residents.

Also available are various programs designed to help individuals maintain connections with their families and prepare for eventual reintegration into the community. Visitation policies generally allow for regular contact with approved family members and friends, while telephone privileges and mail correspondence furnish additional means of staying connected with outside support systems. Work assignments within the facility may include kitchen duties, cleaning responsibilities, or maintenance tasks that not dedicated provide structure but also foster teamwork and responsibility among participants. These opportunities, combined with recreational activities and educational programming, help create a sense of community and shared purpose during what can otherwise be a challenging period of separation from loved ones.