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 Stark County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Stark County Jail 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 Stark County Jail.

Frequently asked questions about Stark County Jail

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 Stark County Jail.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Stark County Jail?

   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 Stark County Jail?

   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 Stark County Jail. 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 Stark County Jail. 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 Stark County Jail?

   Mailing address:

   Stark County Jail
   4500 Atlantic Blvd NE
   Canton, OH 44705
   Phone: (330) 430-3800

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Thursday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Saturday: Closed
   • Sunday: Closed

5. What are the visiting hours at Stark County Jail?

   Visiting hours at Stark County Jail 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 (330) 430-3800 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 Stark County Jail?

   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 Stark County Jail for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Stark County Jail?

   You can send money to an inmate at Stark County Jail 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 Stark County Jail?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Stark County Jail, 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 Stark County Jail?

   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 Stark County Jail 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 Stark County Jail, 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 Stark County Sheriff's Office operates a comprehensive Inmate Services department designed to address the social service needs of those in custody while providing essential support programs. This department, staffed by a supervisor, four officers, and specialized clerks, manages a wide range of services including commissary operations, visitor coordination, and inmate account management. Through partnerships with vendors like Keefe Commissary Company, the facility has modernized its systems to allow families and friends to conveniently order commissary items online through StarkPackages.com, with inmates receiving these items three times per week.

The facility's approach to inmate support extends beyond basic needs to include practical services that help maintain connections with the outside world. Staff assist inmates with making phone calls for legal representation and social services, coordinate professional visitations, and manage property releases. The department also handles essential daily functions such as processing inmate mail, providing haircuts, and distributing hygiene kits and library books. All profits from commissary sales are reinvested into inmate welfare, funding supplies, equipment, hygiene products for indigent inmates, and necessary items like winter coveralls for those working outside.

While the website details these specific services, Stark County Jail may also offer additional programming typical of Ohio correctional facilities, such as educational opportunities, substance abuse counseling, or reentry preparation services. The facility's commitment to using commissary profits to support indigent inmates and provide necessary equipment demonstrates a focus on maintaining dignity and basic welfare for all those in custody, regardless of their financial circumstances.

Daily Life & Visitation

The Stark County Sheriff's Office maintains a structured environment where inmates can access commissary services three times per week through their partnership with Keefe Commissary Company. Family members and friends can now conveniently place orders online at StarkPackages.com, selecting from available menu options that are delivered directly to the facility. The Inmate Services department, staffed by a supervisor, four officers, and several clerks, coordinates these purchases along with managing inmate accounts, processing mail, and arranging professional visits from outside agencies.

Communication with the outside world typically follows established protocols, with inmates able to make phone calls for legal representation and social services with assistance from staff. The facility no longer accepts money through the mail, instead utilizing a kiosk system in the lobby where visitors can deposit cash or use credit cards to fund inmate accounts for commissary purchases and phone calls. Visitation services are coordinated through the Inmate Services department, which also handles the distribution of care packages, hygiene kits, handbooks, and library books to help inmates maintain connections with family and access educational materials.

The facility's approach to inmate welfare includes providing essential services such as haircuts and hygiene supplies, with profits from commissary sales being reinvested to purchase additional supplies and equipment for inmates. This may include special items like winter coveralls and hats for inmates who work outside, as well as uniforms and footwear. The comprehensive support system ensures that both general population and indigent inmates have access to necessary personal care items and clothing, while the structured commissary system allows inmates to supplement their basic needs with approved food items, games, and personal supplies throughout the week.