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 Sedgwick County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Sedgwick 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 Sedgwick County Jail.

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

   Mailing address:

   Sedgwick County Jail
   141 W Elm St
   Wichita, KS 67203
   Phone: (316) 660-5245

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM
   • Tuesday: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM
   • Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM
   • Thursday: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM
   • Friday: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM
   • Saturday: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM
   • Sunday: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM

5. What are the visiting hours at Sedgwick County Jail?

   Visiting hours at Sedgwick 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 (316) 660-5245 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 Sedgwick 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 Sedgwick County Jail for their specific mail policies.

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

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

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

Educational initiatives form the cornerstone of resident development at Sedgwick County Jail, with literacy programs addressing fundamental learning gaps that may have contributed to incarceration patterns. These comprehensive educational offerings typically include basic literacy instruction alongside specialized financial literacy courses designed to equip residents with practical money management skills essential for successful reintegration. The facility's approach recognizes that educational deficiencies often correlate with criminal behavior, making these foundational programs critical components of the rehabilitation process.

Vocational training initiatives complement the educational foundation by providing residents with marketable skills that may enhance their employment prospects upon release. These hands-on programs often focus on trades and technical skills that align with local job market demands, giving participants concrete abilities they can immediately apply in the workforce. The vocational components typically emphasize practical application, allowing residents to develop both technical competencies and work habits that employers value in various industries throughout Kansas.

In addition to these educational and vocational offerings, specialized support services address both immediate needs and long-term challenges residents may face. Commercial driving programs, including CDL preparation, may deliver pathways to stable employment in transportation and logistics sectors. Substance abuse treatment initiatives provide therapeutic interventions for residents struggling with addiction issues, while arts and crafts programs offer creative outlets that can reduce stress and develop fine motor skills. These diverse support services work together to address the multiple factors that often contribute to criminal behavior, creating a comprehensive approach to rehabilitation.

Daily Life & Visitation

Structure forms the backbone of every day, with residents following established routines that begin early each morning and continue through evening hours. At present, the facility actively maintains consistent schedules that typically include designated times for meals, programming, recreation, and rest periods. These predictable patterns help residents adapt to their environment while providing a framework for daily activities.

Living accommodations generally consist of housing units where residents share space with others in dormitory-style or cell arrangements. Meals are usually served at scheduled intervals in dining areas or delivered to housing units, depending on the facility's current operational procedures. Personal property may be limited to essential items, though residents can often access commissary services to purchase approved goods. In addition to this basic structure, the facility typically provides recreational opportunities that may include exercise periods, television viewing, and outdoor time when weather and security considerations permit.

Programming schedules often deliver educational classes, substance abuse counseling, and work assignments that help residents maintain productive routines during their stay. These activities generally operate alongside opportunities for family contact through scheduled visitation periods and telephone access. Despite this structured environment, residents usually have some flexibility within their daily routines to participate in various programs or maintain connections with their support systems outside the facility.