How to contact an inmate at SCI Laurel Highlands
This help guide will walk you through how to connect with an inmate. Follow the steps below to find an inmate and send letters and photos:
SCI Laurel Highlands inmate search
To contact a person start by searching for the person on the facility website. Perform a search by following these steps:
- Step 1: Enter their first name and last name into the search form and click "Search"
- Step 2: Locate their inmate record
- Step 3: Write down their Inmate ID and any housing information provided
Important! Be sure to enter the persons full name. Nicknames should not be used.
After finding the person you are looking for you can then create a messaging account to send letters and photos.
How to message an inmate
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 an message, start by searching for an inmate at SCI Laurel Highlands .
Sending Photos and Postcards
A great way to send love and support to loved one at SCI Laurel Highlands 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 SCI Laurel Highlands.
Frequently asked questions about SCI Laurel Highlands
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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 SCI Laurel Highlands.
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How much does it cost to send a message to SCI Laurel Highlands?
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.
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What services can I use to contact an inmate at SCI Laurel Highlands?
Penmate
You can use Penmate to send letters and photos to an inmate from your phone. It's a 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 SCI Laurel Highlands. 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 for 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 SCI Laurel Highlands. 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.
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What is the mailing address of SCI Laurel Highlands?
Mailing address:
SCI Laurel Highlands
5706 Glades Pike
Somerset , PA 15501
(814) 445-6501Business hours:
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Thursday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Friday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Saturday: Closed
- Sunday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Overview of SCI Laurel Highlands
Found in Somerset Township of Somerset County along Route 31, approximately one mile from the Borough of Somerset, the State Correctional Institution at Laurel Highlands occupies a comprehensive place in Pennsylvania’s correctional system. The facility opened in July 1996 as a security level 2 institution for adult male inmates, utilizing the former Somerset State Hospital property that was transferred from the Department of Public Welfare. This transformation from a healthcare facility to a correctional institution reflects the facility’s continued emphasis on specialized medical care and rehabilitation services.
SCI Laurel Highlands serves as the Commonwealth’s designated provider for inmates with medical special needs, including long-term care, personal care, wheelchair accessibility, dialysis services, and geriatric care. The facility’s medical capabilities include skilled care facilities and specialized treatment units that support inmates requiring intensive healthcare interventions. Beyond medical services, the institution operates as a programming facility for the State Drug Treatment Program and Short Sentence Parole, demonstrating its commitment to rehabilitation and substance abuse recovery.
The facility spans 52 acres within its perimeter and 81 acres outside, featuring 35 operational structures and nine housing units that include both traditional cells and dormitory-style accommodations. Through its Community Work Program, inmates contribute to local government agencies and non-profit organizations by performing various maintenance and service tasks throughout the community. The Reentry Service Office supports inmates within 18 months of their release date, providing essential information and services designed to improve community reintegration and reduce recidivism rates.
What services are provided by SCI Laurel Highlands?
The State Correctional Institution at Laurel Highlands operates as Pennsylvania’s specialized provider for inmates with medical special needs, offering comprehensive long-term care, personal care services, wheelchair accessibility, dialysis treatment, and geriatric care programs. This medical focus shapes much of the facility’s programming approach, as residents receive both healthcare services and rehabilitation opportunities designed to support their comprehensive needs. The facility also serves as a programming institution for the State Drug Treatment Program and Short Sentence Parole, providing intensive substance abuse treatment and preparation for community reintegration.
Educational and vocational programming at SCI Laurel Highlands may include adult basic education, GED preparation, and vocational training opportunities that accommodate residents with varying physical abilities and medical needs. The facility’s Community Work Program allows eligible inmates to contribute to the surrounding Somerset County community through painting, landscaping, cleaning, concrete work, and litter removal projects with government agencies and non-profit organizations. These work opportunities typically provide valuable job skills and community connection while serving local needs.
Support services focus heavily on successful reentry through the facility’s Reentry Service Office, which provides information and services to inmates within 18 months of their minimum or release date. Reentry Parole Agents work with residents to develop comprehensive release plans that address housing, employment, healthcare continuity, and community support systems. The facility may also offer counseling services, substance abuse programming beyond the specialized drug treatment program, religious services, and recreational activities adapted to meet the needs of residents with medical conditions and mobility limitations.
