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 Shelby County Sheriff’s Office.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Shelby County Sheriff’s Office 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 Shelby County Sheriff’s Office.

Frequently asked questions about Shelby County Sheriff’s Office

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 Shelby County Sheriff’s Office.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Shelby County Sheriff’s Office?

   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 Shelby County Sheriff’s Office?

   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 Shelby County Sheriff’s Office. 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 Shelby County Sheriff’s Office. 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 Shelby County Sheriff’s Office?

   Mailing address:

   Shelby County Sheriff’s Office
   100 Hurst St
   Center, TX 75935
   Phone: (936) 598-5601

   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 Shelby County Sheriff’s Office?

   Visiting hours at Shelby County Sheriff’s Office 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 (936) 598-5601 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 Shelby County Sheriff’s Office?

   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 Shelby County Sheriff’s Office for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Shelby County Sheriff’s Office?

   You can send money to an inmate at Shelby County Sheriff’s Office 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 Shelby County Sheriff’s Office?

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

   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 Shelby County Sheriff’s Office 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 Shelby County Sheriff’s Office, 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

A diverse array of opportunities within Shelby County Jail, TX reflects a comprehensive approach to individual development and community preparation. The facility typically recognizes that meaningful change occurs through multiple pathways, offering individuals various avenues for personal growth and skill development. This multi-faceted programming philosophy often emphasizes both immediate needs and long-term success preparation.

Educational and vocational opportunities may include structured vocational training programs designed to build marketable skills for post-release employment. Job readiness training often complements these technical programs, helping individuals develop workplace communication skills, interview techniques, and professional habits. Furthermore, work programs within the facility typically provide hands-on experience while contributing to daily operations, allowing participants to develop responsibility and work ethic in a supervised environment.

Support services and therapeutic opportunities often encompass faith-based initiatives that provide spiritual guidance and community connection for interested individuals. Music programs may offer creative expression and stress management benefits, while comprehensive reentry preparation typically addresses practical concerns like housing, employment, and community resources. Additionally, recycling programs often combine environmental awareness with work experience, creating opportunities for individuals to contribute positively to sustainability efforts while developing transferable skills for future employment.

Daily Life & Visitation

The sound of meal trays being distributed typically marks the beginning of structured activity periods throughout the facility. Daily routines at this correctional facility currently follow established schedules that continue to provide individuals with predictable timeframes for meals, programming, and personal activities. Wake-up generally occurs in the early morning hours, followed by breakfast service and cell inspections that help maintain facility security and cleanliness standards.

Housing arrangements vary based on classification levels and available space within the facility's different housing units. Individuals typically share cells or dormitory-style accommodations, with personal property limited to approved items that may include basic hygiene products, limited clothing, and correspondence materials. Furthermore, the commissary system allows individuals to purchase additional approved items when funds are available through their accounts, offering some personal choice within the structured environment.

Programming opportunities often include educational classes, substance abuse counseling, and work assignments that may involve kitchen duties, facility maintenance, or laundry services. Although recreation time is generally limited, individuals typically have access to scheduled outdoor time and indoor common areas when security protocols permit. Visitation policies usually allow family members to maintain contact through scheduled visits, phone calls, and written correspondence, providing important connections to support systems outside the facility. These communication options help individuals maintain relationships that often prove essential during their time in custody and upon release.