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 Southwest Virginia Regional Jail Authority Abingdon Facility.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Southwest Virginia Regional Jail Authority Abingdon 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 Southwest Virginia Regional Jail Authority Abingdon Facility.

Frequently asked questions about Southwest Virginia Regional Jail Authority Abingdon 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 Southwest Virginia Regional Jail Authority Abingdon Facility.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Southwest Virginia Regional Jail Authority Abingdon 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 Southwest Virginia Regional Jail Authority Abingdon 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 Southwest Virginia Regional Jail Authority Abingdon 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 Southwest Virginia Regional Jail Authority Abingdon 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 Southwest Virginia Regional Jail Authority Abingdon Facility?

   Mailing address:

   Southwest Virginia Regional Jail Authority Abingdon Facility
   15205 Joe Derting Dr
   Abingdon, VA 24210
   Phone: (276) 739-3520

   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 Southwest Virginia Regional Jail Authority Abingdon Facility?

   Visiting hours at Southwest Virginia Regional Jail Authority Abingdon 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 (276) 739-3520 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 Southwest Virginia Regional Jail Authority Abingdon 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 Southwest Virginia Regional Jail Authority Abingdon Facility for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Southwest Virginia Regional Jail Authority Abingdon Facility?

   You can send money to an inmate at Southwest Virginia Regional Jail Authority Abingdon 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 Southwest Virginia Regional Jail Authority Abingdon Facility?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Southwest Virginia Regional Jail Authority Abingdon 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 Southwest Virginia Regional Jail Authority Abingdon 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 Southwest Virginia Regional Jail Authority Abingdon 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 Southwest Virginia Regional Jail Authority Abingdon 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

Communication with family and support networks forms a cornerstone of the services available to those incarcerated at VA Southwest / Duffield Regional Jail. The facility operates a real-time video visitation system that enables face-to-face conversations between inmates and their loved ones, helping maintain crucial family connections during incarceration. Phone services are provided through Smart Communications, offering another vital communication channel, while the commissary system accepts funds through multiple deposit methods to ensure inmates can access personal items and necessities.

Beyond these communication services, the facility may offer educational programming designed to support skill development and personal growth. Like many Virginia correctional facilities, programs might include adult basic education, GED preparation, and vocational training opportunities that help prepare individuals for successful reentry into their communities. Counseling services and substance abuse programs are often available to address underlying issues that may have contributed to criminal behavior.

The facility typically provides additional support services that may include religious programming, library access, and recreational activities. Mental health services and medical care are generally standard components of facility operations, ensuring the wellbeing of those in custody. Work programs within the facility often provide inmates with opportunities to develop job skills and maintain productive routines during their incarceration period.

Daily Life & Visitation

Communication with family members forms a central part of the routine for individuals housed at VA Southwest / Duffield Regional Jail, with the facility offering both real-time video visitation and traditional phone services through Smart Communications. These technological resources allow inmates to maintain meaningful connections with their loved ones, providing scheduled opportunities throughout the week to speak directly with family and friends via the video visitation system or place calls during designated phone hours.

The commissary system operates through multiple deposit methods, enabling families to contribute funds to inmates' accounts for purchasing personal items, snacks, and hygiene products. This financial support system typically allows individuals to supplement their basic needs and maintain some personal preferences during their stay. The facility generally follows standard correctional schedules, with structured meal times, recreation periods, and programming opportunities that may include educational classes or work assignments, though specific program offerings can vary based on facility capacity and staffing.

Living arrangements at the facility typically follow regional jail standards, with inmates housed in dormitory-style or cell accommodations depending on classification levels and security requirements. The daily routine often includes regular count times, cleaning responsibilities, and access to common areas during specified hours. Medical services and basic healthcare are usually available on-site, while legal visits and attorney consultations are generally accommodated through separate scheduling procedures to ensure confidentiality and proper legal representation access.