Sending Mail to SCORE Jail: Exact Address, Photo Limit, and What Gets Through
Getting mail into SCORE Jail comes down to three things: the exact address format, a return address on every envelope, and keeping contents simple enough to pass inspection.
Use this exact format on the envelope: (Inmate's Full Name and Name Number) SCORE Jail 20817 17th Avenue South Des Moines, WA 98198 That first line is critical. SCORE requires the inmate's name number on all correspondence - it's how they ensure accurate delivery.
Always include your full return address on the envelope. SCORE requires it, and they'll use it if the mail can't be delivered or gets rejected.
Contact: SCORE Jail can be reached at 206-257-6200. The facility address is 20817 17th Ave S, Des Moines, WA 98198 (website: ScoreJail.org).
Every piece of mail gets screened. SCORE opens and inspects all incoming and outgoing correspondence for contraband. Mail may be read, censored, or rejected based on security concerns. The exception: legal mail clearly marked as correspondence between the inmate and their attorney or the court regarding their current case - staff won't read that.
- Return it to the sender - If something is considered contraband, SCORE may send the envelope and contents back.
- Place it in the inmate’s property - Some items may be removed from the mail and stored with the inmate’s property instead.
- Investigate it as a criminal violation - If the contraband raises criminal concerns, it may be investigated.
Inmates can keep a maximum of six photographs with them. Send more than that, and the extras go into their stored property - not their living space.
If SCORE rejects your mail, they won't just toss it. Both you and the inmate receive a mail rejection notification form explaining why and outlining how to appeal the decision.
Sending books or magazines? The source matters. New softback books, magazines, and newspapers must come directly from the publisher or a licensed retailer - SCORE won't accept publications mailed by individuals. Hardbound books aren't allowed at all.
Quick Checklist
- ✓ Write the inmate’s full name and name number on the first address line.
- ✓ Address it to: SCORE Jail, 20817 17th Avenue South, Des Moines, WA 98198.
- ✓ Put your full return address on the envelope.
- ✓ Keep contents simple - mail is opened and checked for contraband (legal mail is the exception when clearly identified).
- ✓ Send publications only from the publisher or a licensed retailer (no hardbound books; no publications mailed directly from an individual).
Tip: If you’re unsure whether something will be accepted, call 206-257-6200 or check ScoreJail.org before you mail it.
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