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 St Joseph County Juvenile Justice.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at St Joseph County Juvenile Justice 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 St Joseph County Juvenile Justice.

Frequently asked questions about St Joseph County Juvenile Justice

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 St Joseph County Juvenile Justice.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to St Joseph County Juvenile Justice?

   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 St Joseph County Juvenile Justice?

   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 St Joseph County Juvenile Justice. 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 St Joseph County Juvenile Justice. 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 St Joseph County Juvenile Justice?

   Mailing address:

   St Joseph County Juvenile Justice
   1000 S Michigan St
   South Bend, IN 46601
   Phone: (574) 235-5437

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
   • Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Thursday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
   • Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Saturday: Closed
   • Sunday: Closed

5. What are the visiting hours at St Joseph County Juvenile Justice?

   Visiting hours at St Joseph County Juvenile Justice 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 (574) 235-5437 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 St Joseph County Juvenile Justice?

   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 St Joseph County Juvenile Justice for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at St Joseph County Juvenile Justice?

   You can send money to an inmate at St Joseph County Juvenile Justice 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 St Joseph County Juvenile Justice?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At St Joseph County Juvenile Justice, 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 St Joseph County Juvenile Justice?

   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 St Joseph County Juvenile Justice 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 St Joseph County Juvenile Justice, 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 Thomas N. Frederick Juvenile Justice Center operates under the mission of "Successful Youth Safe Community," housing a comprehensive network of agencies that work collaboratively to support youth in the juvenile justice system. The facility integrates multiple essential services including juvenile probation, detention, day reporting, and electronic monitoring programs, along with legal support through the prosecutor's and public defender's offices. This multi-faceted approach allows for coordinated case management and wraparound services that address the diverse needs of youth and families involved in the system.

The center's day reporting program typically provides structured supervision and programming for youth who remain in the community while under court supervision. This may include educational support, counseling services, life skills training, and substance abuse programming when needed. The electronic monitoring program offers an alternative to detention that allows youth to remain at home while ensuring compliance with court orders. Additionally, the facility houses CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates), which provides trained volunteers who advocate for the best interests of youth in court proceedings, ensuring their voices are heard throughout the legal process.

Beyond the core supervision and monitoring services, the juvenile justice center likely offers various rehabilitative programs designed to address underlying issues that may contribute to delinquent behavior. These may include individual and group counseling, family therapy services, educational assistance for youth who have fallen behind academically, and vocational training opportunities. The facility's integrated approach, with probation services available with extended evening hours and 24-hour detention operations, demonstrates a commitment to providing accessible and responsive services that support both immediate supervision needs and long-term rehabilitation goals for youth in St. Joseph County.

Daily Life & Visitation

The Thomas N. Frederick Juvenile Justice Center operates around the clock, with detention services available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, ensuring continuous supervision and care for youth in custody. This multi-faceted facility brings together various agencies under one roof, including juvenile probation, court services, and detention, creating a comprehensive environment where young people may interact with probation officers, court personnel, and specialized advocates throughout their stay. The center's integrated approach typically means that youth have access to court proceedings, probation meetings, and various support services without leaving the facility.

Youth residing at the detention center likely follow structured daily schedules that may include educational programming, meals at designated times, recreational activities, and meetings with probation officers or legal representatives. The facility's connection to multiple agencies often provides residents with opportunities to participate in day reporting programs or prepare for electronic monitoring transitions. Family involvement is typically encouraged through regular visitation opportunities, though specific visiting hours and procedures would need to be confirmed directly with the facility.

The center operates under the mission of "Successful Youth, Safe Community," suggesting that daily programming often focuses on rehabilitation and community reintegration. Youth may participate in counseling sessions, educational activities, and life skills training designed to support their successful return to the community. The presence of Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) within the building indicates that many residents have additional support from trained volunteers who advocate for their best interests throughout the juvenile justice process.