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 Landry Parish Sheriff.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at St Landry Parish Sheriff 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 Landry Parish Sheriff.

Frequently asked questions about St Landry Parish Sheriff

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 Landry Parish Sheriff.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to St Landry Parish Sheriff?

   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 Landry Parish Sheriff?

   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 Landry Parish Sheriff. 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 Landry Parish Sheriff. 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 Landry Parish Sheriff?

   Mailing address:

   St Landry Parish Sheriff
   108 S Market St
   Opelousas, LA 70570
   Phone: (337) 948-6516

5. What are the visiting hours at St Landry Parish Sheriff?

   Visiting hours at St Landry Parish Sheriff 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 (337) 948-6516 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 Landry Parish Sheriff?

   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 Landry Parish Sheriff for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at St Landry Parish Sheriff?

   You can send money to an inmate at St Landry Parish Sheriff 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 Landry Parish Sheriff?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At St Landry Parish Sheriff, 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 Landry Parish Sheriff?

   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 Landry Parish Sheriff 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 Landry Parish Sheriff, 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

Rehabilitation through structured learning and skill development forms the cornerstone of resident transformation initiatives at St. Landry Parish Jail. The facility typically emphasizes a comprehensive approach that addresses both immediate educational needs and long-term career preparation. Residents may participate in various evidence-based initiatives designed to reduce recidivism while building essential life skills that support successful community reintegration.

Educational initiatives often include foundational academic instruction alongside specialized English as Second Language (ESL) courses for non-native speakers. These programs may deliver basic literacy training, GED preparation, and computer skills development through structured classroom settings. Also, vocational training initiatives typically provide hands-on instruction in trades such as construction, food service, and maintenance skills. Residents often benefit from learning marketable skills that can lead to employment opportunities upon release, with curriculum designed to meet local workforce demands.

Support services may encompass faith-based programs that offer spiritual guidance and community connection for interested residents. Job placement assistance initiatives typically help participants develop resume writing skills, interview techniques, and job search strategies. Also, the facility often includes recreational and therapeutic activities such as arts and crafts programs that promote creative expression and stress management. Recycling programs may provide residents with opportunities to contribute to environmental sustainability while developing work habits and responsibility, creating a sense of purpose and community engagement during their incarceration period.

Daily Life & Visitation

At present, structured schedules actively govern every aspect of the day, with wake-up calls typically occurring in the early morning hours followed by mandatory counts and cell inspections. Residents generally follow a regimented routine that includes designated times for meals, programming, recreation, and rest periods. This consistent framework helps establish predictability in an otherwise uncertain environment. The daily structure typically begins with breakfast service, followed by work assignments or educational programming for eligible residents.

Living accommodations at the facility usually consist of shared housing units with multiple residents per cell or dormitory-style arrangements. Residents typically receive basic bedding, personal hygiene items, and have access to commissary services where they may purchase additional necessities and approved snacks. Also, the facility generally provides three meals daily in designated dining areas, with menus that aim to meet basic nutritional requirements. Personal property is usually limited to approved items, and residents may typically store a small number of personal belongings according to facility guidelines.

Programming schedules often deliver educational opportunities, substance abuse counseling, and religious services throughout the week. Recreation periods generally include outdoor time when weather permits, along with access to television and reading materials in common areas. However, these activities may be subject to facility operations and security considerations. Visitation typically occurs on scheduled days, allowing residents to maintain connections with family members and approved visitors. Also, residents usually have access to telephone services during designated hours, enabling them to communicate with loved ones and legal representatives. Work assignments within the facility may include kitchen duties, cleaning responsibilities, and general maintenance tasks that help residents maintain structure while contributing to facility operations.