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 Southeastern Correctional Institution.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Southeastern Correctional Institution 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 Southeastern Correctional Institution.

Frequently asked questions about Southeastern Correctional Institution

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 Southeastern Correctional Institution.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Southeastern Correctional Institution?

   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 Southeastern Correctional Institution?

   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 Southeastern Correctional Institution. 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 Southeastern Correctional Institution. 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 Southeastern Correctional Institution?

   Mailing address:

   Southeastern Correctional Institution
   5900 BIS Rd SW
   Lancaster, OH 43130
   Phone: (740) 653-4324

   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 Southeastern Correctional Institution?

   Visiting hours at Southeastern Correctional Institution 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 (740) 653-4324 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 Southeastern Correctional Institution?

   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 Southeastern Correctional Institution for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Southeastern Correctional Institution?

   You can send money to an inmate at Southeastern Correctional Institution 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 Southeastern Correctional Institution?

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

   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 Southeastern Correctional Institution 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 Southeastern Correctional Institution, 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

Personal growth and skill development form the foundation of rehabilitation services at Southeastern Correctional Institution in Ohio. The facility typically emphasizes building practical abilities and addressing underlying challenges that may have contributed to incarceration. Through a comprehensive approach to inmate development, the institution often focuses on preparing individuals for successful community reintegration while addressing immediate needs during incarceration.

Educational initiatives may provide inmates with opportunities to complete high school equivalency programs and pursue basic literacy improvement. These services often include computer skills training and academic support to help participants build foundational knowledge. Additionally, vocational services typically offer job training in various trades, with automotive repair programs that may teach practical mechanical skills. These hands-on learning opportunities often focus on developing marketable abilities that inmates can use upon release.

Support services play a crucial role in addressing personal challenges and preparing for reentry. Recovery services may offer substance abuse counseling and treatment programs to help inmates address addiction issues. Religious services typically provide spiritual guidance and community support for those seeking faith-based assistance. Additionally, identification document assistance often helps inmates obtain necessary paperwork like birth certificates and social security cards, which are essential for securing employment and housing after release. These comprehensive support services work together to address the multiple factors that contribute to successful rehabilitation and community reintegration.

Daily Life & Visitation

The housing units at Southeastern Correctional Institution feature a structured dormitory-style environment where inmates navigate shared living spaces under constant supervision. Today's routine begins early with mandatory counts and meal service, consistently followed by work assignments, educational programming, or recreational periods. Inmates typically adapt to this regimented schedule by establishing personal routines within the facility's framework.

Living accommodations generally include bunk-style sleeping arrangements in dormitory settings, with inmates sharing common areas for dining and recreation. Personal property remains limited to approved items, while the commissary provides access to additional necessities and comfort items. Additionally, inmates may participate in various work assignments throughout the facility, including kitchen duties, maintenance tasks, and laundry services that provide structure and skills development.

Programming schedules typically offer educational classes, vocational training, and recreational activities during designated hours. While visitation policies allow for family contact during scheduled periods, inmates also maintain connections through monitored phone calls and correspondence. These opportunities for family engagement often provide crucial support systems that help inmates adapt to institutional life and prepare for eventual reintegration into their communities.