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 Sampson County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Sampson 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 Sampson County Jail.

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

   Mailing address:

   Sampson County Jail
   112 Fontana St
   Clinton, NC 28328
   Phone: (910) 592-8178

   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 Sampson County Jail?

   Visiting hours at Sampson 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 (910) 592-8178 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 Sampson 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 Sampson County Jail for their specific mail policies.

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

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

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

Personal development takes center stage through carefully structured offerings designed to equip those incarcerated with essential skills for successful reintegration. The facility typically emphasizes a comprehensive approach that addresses educational gaps, builds practical job skills, and provides therapeutic support within a secure environment. These opportunities often focus on creating pathways for positive change while maintaining the safety and structure necessary for effective programming.

Educational services may furnish foundational learning opportunities, including basic literacy and numeracy instruction tailored to individual needs. Special education services often provide specialized support for those requiring additional academic assistance. Moreover, vocational training typically includes hands-on instruction in practical trades and technical skills that align with local employment markets. Job readiness training often covers essential workplace skills such as resume writing, interview preparation, and professional communication techniques.

Therapeutic offerings frequently address underlying issues that may contribute to criminal behavior, with substance abuse programs providing counseling and education about addiction recovery. Moreover, veteran services typically offer specialized support for those who have served in the military, recognizing their comprehensive experiences and needs. These support services often include group counseling sessions and individualized treatment planning designed to promote personal accountability and positive behavioral change within the structured correctional environment.

Daily Life & Visitation

Family connections and peer relationships form the foundation of social life for those incarcerated at Sampson County Detention Center. The facility currently maintains structured daily routines that begin with early morning counts and continue to include scheduled meal times, work assignments, and recreational periods. Those incarcerated typically follow consistent schedules that furnish stability and predictability throughout their stay.

Housing arrangements generally place individuals in dormitory-style units or smaller cells, depending on classification levels and available space. Meal service usually occurs in common dining areas where social interaction naturally develops among residents. Moreover, the facility typically provides recreational opportunities that may include outdoor exercise time, television viewing in common areas, and access to reading materials that help maintain mental engagement.

Communication with family members remains a vital component of daily life through scheduled visitation periods and telephone access. Those incarcerated often participate in work assignments within the facility that may include kitchen duties, maintenance tasks, or cleaning responsibilities. Whereas some facilities offer extensive programming, Sampson County Detention Center typically focuses on maintaining basic services and ensuring those incarcerated can access commissary items and maintain contact with their support systems outside the facility walls.