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 Schenectady County Sheriff.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Schenectady County Sheriff 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 Schenectady County Sheriff.

Frequently asked questions about Schenectady County Sheriff

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 Schenectady County Sheriff.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Schenectady County Sheriff?

   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 Schenectady County Sheriff?

   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 Schenectady County Sheriff. 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 Schenectady County Sheriff. 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 Schenectady County Sheriff?

   Mailing address:

   Schenectady County Sheriff
   320 Veeder Ave
   Schenectady, NY 12307
   Phone: (518) 393-8300

   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 Schenectady County Sheriff?

   Visiting hours at Schenectady County Sheriff 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 (518) 393-8300 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 Schenectady County Sheriff?

   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 Schenectady County Sheriff for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Schenectady County Sheriff?

   You can send money to an inmate at Schenectady County Sheriff 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 Schenectady County Sheriff?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Schenectady County Sheriff, 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 Schenectady County Sheriff?

   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 Schenectady County Sheriff 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 Schenectady County Sheriff, 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 Schenectady County Department of Corrections, operating as a division of the Sheriff's Office, provides essential support services that extend beyond basic detention. Through their inmate commissary account system utilizing the Cobra Cashier Kiosk, family members and friends can deposit funds to help inmates access necessary items during their stay. The facility has modernized its bail procedures to offer multiple payment options including cash, certified bank checks, and credit cards, with both in-person and electronic payment capabilities through their partnership with GovPayNet for remote bail services.

While specific programming details were not fully available from the corrections division information, Schenectady County Jail may offer educational and vocational training programs typical of New York correctional facilities. These could potentially include GED preparation classes, basic literacy programs, and job readiness training to help prepare inmates for successful reintegration into the community. The facility likely provides access to library services and may offer substance abuse counseling programs, given the common needs of the inmate population.

Additional support services at the facility may include mental health counseling, medical care, and chaplaincy services to address the diverse needs of inmates. The corrections staff typically works to maintain family connections through visitation programs and telephone access, recognizing the importance of community support in successful rehabilitation. For specific information about available programs or to inquire about inmate services, individuals can contact the Corrections Division directly at (518) 388-4300.

Daily Life & Visitation

The Schenectady County Correction Facility operates under the Schenectady County Sheriff's Office, where inmates typically begin each day with scheduled counts and meal service. While specific daily schedules may vary, most inmates can expect structured routines that include designated times for meals, recreation, and programming activities. The facility maintains security protocols common to county jails throughout New York, with inmates generally housed in dormitory-style or cell accommodations depending on classification levels and available space.

Family connections remain an important aspect of life at the facility, with the corrections division providing multiple ways for loved ones to support inmates. The facility utilizes a Cobra Cashier Kiosk system that allows family and friends to deposit funds into inmate commissary accounts, enabling inmates to purchase approved items like snacks, hygiene products, and writing materials. These commissary privileges typically provide inmates with some personal choice and comfort items beyond basic facility provisions. Communication with the outside world may include scheduled phone calls and mail correspondence, following standard correctional facility guidelines for security screening.

The bail system at Schenectady County demonstrates the facility's integration with modern payment processing, accepting cash, certified bank checks, and credit cards both in-person and through the GovPayNet remote service. For those awaiting trial or court appearances, this accessibility can significantly impact their length of stay. Inmates typically spend time preparing for court dates, meeting with legal counsel when available, and participating in any educational or treatment programs the facility may offer. The corrections staff, operating under the sheriff's department, maintains the daily operations while ensuring inmates understand their court obligations and the conditions of any potential release.