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 Smith Correctional Facility.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Smith Correctional Facility 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 Smith Correctional Facility.

Frequently asked questions about Smith Correctional Facility

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 Smith Correctional Facility.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Smith Correctional Facility?

   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 Smith Correctional Facility?

   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 Smith Correctional Facility. 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 Smith Correctional Facility. 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 Smith Correctional Facility?

   Mailing address:

   Smith Correctional Facility
   1627 Hargrave St
   Banning, CA 92220
   Phone: (951) 922-7300

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

5. What are the visiting hours at Smith Correctional Facility?

   Visiting hours at Smith Correctional Facility 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 (951) 922-7300 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 Smith Correctional Facility?

   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 Smith Correctional Facility for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Smith Correctional Facility?

   You can send money to an inmate at Smith Correctional Facility 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 Smith Correctional Facility?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Smith Correctional Facility, 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 Smith Correctional Facility?

   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 Smith Correctional Facility 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 Smith Correctional Facility, 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

The Larry D. Smith Correctional Facility in Banning, California, operates under the Riverside County Sheriff's Department with a structured approach to inmate management and family connections. The facility maintains specific visiting protocols that support family relationships, allowing inmates up to two visits per week with a maximum of two visitors per session, each lasting approximately 45 minutes.

While the facility's primary focus involves secure housing and supervision, correctional facilities in California typically may offer various rehabilitative services to support inmate development. These programs often include educational opportunities such as GED preparation and basic literacy courses, which help individuals work toward completing their high school education. Vocational training programs may also be available, potentially covering areas like janitorial services, food preparation, or basic maintenance skills that can assist with employment readiness upon release.

The facility likely provides access to counseling services and substance abuse programs, as these are common components of correctional programming in California. Mental health support services may include individual counseling sessions and group therapy programs designed to address various behavioral and emotional challenges. Additionally, the facility may offer religious services and chaplaincy programs to support spiritual needs, along with basic medical and dental care to maintain inmate health during incarceration.

Daily Life & Visitation

Inmates at the Larry D. Smith Correctional Facility in Banning, California, can maintain connections with family and friends through a structured visitation program that allows up to two visits per week. Each visit typically lasts approximately 45 minutes, with up to two visitors permitted per inmate during scheduled sessions. Family members must call 951-922-7540 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. to arrange visits, and all visitors must be at least 18 years old with valid government-issued photo identification.

The facility maintains strict security protocols that shape the daily environment for both inmates and visitors. All visitors may be subject to searches and warrant checks, and the dress code requires appropriate attire that covers the torso and mid-body areas. The visiting areas prohibit food, drinks, smoking, and any items that could pose security risks, including cameras or weapons. These measures help ensure a safe environment while allowing meaningful contact between inmates and their support networks.

Like many correctional facilities in California, the Larry D. Smith Correctional Facility likely operates on structured daily schedules that may include meal times, recreational periods, and various programming opportunities. Inmates typically follow established routines for housing unit activities, with staff supervision throughout the day. The facility's location in Banning provides a setting where inmates can potentially access services and programs designed to support their time in custody, though specific program details would vary based on individual circumstances and facility resources.