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 Louis County Justice Services.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about St Louis County Justice Services

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 Louis County Justice Services.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to St Louis County Justice Services?

   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 Louis County Justice Services?

   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 Louis County Justice Services. 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 Louis County Justice Services. 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 Louis County Justice Services?

   Mailing address:

   St Louis County Justice Services
   100 S Central Ave
   Clayton, MO 63105
   Phone: (314) 615-5245

   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 St Louis County Justice Services?

   Visiting hours at St Louis County Justice Services 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 (314) 615-5245 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 Louis County Justice Services?

   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 Louis County Justice Services for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at St Louis County Justice Services?

   You can send money to an inmate at St Louis County Justice Services 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 Louis County Justice Services?

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

   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 Louis County Justice Services 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 Louis County Justice Services, 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

Recognizing that meaningful change requires multifaceted support, St. Francois County Jail has developed a comprehensive framework of opportunities designed to address the diverse needs of individuals in its care. This holistic approach acknowledges that successful reintegration depends not merely on addressing immediate concerns, but on cultivating a broad spectrum of skills, knowledge, and personal insights that can serve as foundations for positive life changes. The facility's programming philosophy emphasizes the interconnected nature of personal development, understanding that educational advancement, practical skill acquisition, and therapeutic growth work synergistically to create lasting transformation.

Educational opportunities typically form the cornerstone of the facility's comprehensive offerings, with programs that may include basic literacy instruction, GED preparation, and continuing education courses tailored to various skill levels. These academic pursuits often complement vocational training initiatives that focus on developing marketable skills and trade competencies. Such vocational programming frequently encompasses hands-on learning experiences in fields that align with regional employment opportunities, providing individuals with practical expertise that can facilitate their transition back into the community workforce.

The facility's therapeutic and support services demonstrate equal commitment to comprehensive care, with substance abuse treatment programs that address the underlying issues often associated with criminal behavior. Also available are specialized opportunities such as upholstery training, which combines practical skill development with therapeutic benefits, and time management courses that help individuals develop essential life skills. Volunteer programs may offer additional avenues for personal growth and community connection, allowing participants to contribute meaningfully while developing a sense of purpose and civic responsibility that extends beyond their period of incarceration.

Daily Life & Visitation

The sound of meal trays being distributed often marks the beginning of structured activity periods throughout the facility, as individuals at St. Francois County Jail now find their days organized around regular meal times, count procedures, and scheduled programming opportunities. Daily routines typically begin early in the morning with wake-up calls and head counts, followed by breakfast service and the start of various activities that may include educational classes, work assignments, or recreational periods. Individuals regularly participate in facility maintenance duties, kitchen operations, or laundry services, which not only help maintain the jail's operations but also provide structure and purpose to their daily schedules.

Living accommodations generally consist of shared housing units where individuals are assigned to cells or dormitory-style areas based on classification levels and security considerations. The facility typically provides basic bedding, personal hygiene items, and limited storage space for approved personal belongings, while individuals may supplement these necessities through commissary purchases when funds are available. However, personal property is usually restricted to essential items, and all belongings must comply with facility security policies and regulations that help maintain safety for everyone housed within the jail.

Also important to daily life are the various programs and services that offer individuals opportunities for personal development and family connection. Educational programming may include literacy classes, substance abuse counseling, or life skills workshops that help prepare individuals for eventual reintegration into the community. Visitation schedules typically allow for regular contact with family members and friends, while telephone access and written correspondence provide additional means of maintaining important relationships during incarceration. However, all communication and visitation activities are subject to security protocols and scheduling limitations that help ensure the facility operates safely and efficiently.