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 Sioux County Sheriff's Office / Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Sioux County Sheriff's Office / 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 Sioux County Sheriff's Office / Jail.

Frequently asked questions about Sioux County Sheriff's Office / 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 Sioux County Sheriff's Office / Jail.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Sioux County Sheriff's Office / 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 Sioux County Sheriff's Office / 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 Sioux County Sheriff's Office / 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 Sioux County Sheriff's Office / 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 Sioux County Sheriff's Office / Jail?

   Mailing address:

   Sioux County Sheriff's Office / Jail
   4363 Ironwood Ave
   Orange City, IA 51041
   Phone: (712) 737-2280

   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 Sioux County Sheriff's Office / Jail?

   Visiting hours at Sioux County Sheriff's Office / 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 (712) 737-2280 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 Sioux County Sheriff's Office / 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 Sioux County Sheriff's Office / Jail for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Sioux County Sheriff's Office / Jail?

   You can send money to an inmate at Sioux County Sheriff's Office / 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 Sioux County Sheriff's Office / Jail?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Sioux County Sheriff's Office / 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 Sioux County Sheriff's Office / 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 Sioux County Sheriff's Office / 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 Sioux County Sheriff's Office / 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

A diverse range of developmental opportunities operates within Sioux County Jail in Orange City, designed to address the varied needs of individuals during their time in custody. The facility typically emphasizes a comprehensive approach that recognizes each person's potential for growth and positive change. These opportunities often focus on building practical skills, addressing personal challenges, and preparing individuals for successful community reintegration.

Educational and vocational opportunities form a cornerstone of the facility's programming approach. GED preparation services may be available to help individuals complete their high school education and improve their academic foundation. Education services often extend beyond basic academics to include practical learning experiences. Additionally, vocational programs typically provide hands-on training that can translate into employment skills upon release. Grounds maintenance opportunities may offer individuals the chance to develop work experience while contributing to facility operations.

Support services and therapeutic opportunities complement the educational offerings through targeted interventions. Mental health services often provide crucial support for individuals dealing with various psychological challenges and emotional difficulties. Anger management programming typically helps participants develop better coping strategies and conflict resolution skills. Additionally, decision making skills training may focus on helping individuals make more positive choices in their daily lives and future planning. These therapeutic opportunities often work together to address underlying issues that may have contributed to an individual's involvement with the justice system.

Daily Life & Visitation

The sound of keys and radio chatter creates a constant backdrop as individuals at Sioux County Jail in Orange City navigate their structured daily environment. Daily routines now revolve around scheduled meal times, headcounts, and programmed activities that provide order to each day. Individuals regularly participate in cleaning duties, attend educational sessions when available, and follow established protocols for movement throughout the facility.

Living accommodations typically consist of shared housing units where individuals maintain personal spaces within dormitory-style or cell-based arrangements. The facility generally provides basic necessities including bedding, hygiene items, and uniforms, while individuals may purchase additional commissary items to supplement their daily needs. Additionally, personal property is usually limited and stored according to facility guidelines, with specific items permitted based on security classifications and housing assignments.

Programming opportunities often include educational classes, substance abuse counseling, and work assignments that may involve kitchen duties, laundry services, or facility maintenance tasks. While recreational activities typically offer structured exercise periods and access to reading materials, visitation policies generally allow family members to maintain contact through scheduled visits and phone calls. These connections with loved ones usually provide crucial support systems that help individuals cope with the challenges of incarceration while working toward their eventual reintegration into the community.