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 Stearns County Sheriff's Office.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Stearns County Sheriff's Office 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 Stearns County Sheriff's Office.

Frequently asked questions about Stearns County Sheriff's Office

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 Stearns County Sheriff's Office.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Stearns County Sheriff's Office?

   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 Stearns County Sheriff's Office?

   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 Stearns County Sheriff's Office. 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 Stearns County Sheriff's Office. 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 Stearns County Sheriff's Office?

   Mailing address:

   Stearns County Sheriff's Office
   807 Courthouse Square
   St Cloud, MN 56303
   Phone: (320) 259-3700

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Thursday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Saturday: Closed
   • Sunday: Closed

5. What are the visiting hours at Stearns County Sheriff's Office?

   Visiting hours at Stearns County Sheriff's Office 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 (320) 259-3700 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 Stearns County Sheriff's Office?

   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 Stearns County Sheriff's Office for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Stearns County Sheriff's Office?

   You can send money to an inmate at Stearns County Sheriff's Office 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 Stearns County Sheriff's Office?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Stearns County Sheriff's Office, 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 Stearns County Sheriff's Office?

   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 Stearns County Sheriff's Office 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 Stearns County Sheriff's Office, 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

Multiple pathways for personal growth and development form the foundation of opportunities available to individuals at Stearns County Jail. The facility typically emphasizes a comprehensive approach that addresses various aspects of rehabilitation and preparation for successful community reintegration. These opportunities often span educational advancement, skill development, therapeutic support, and personal wellness, creating a framework designed to meet diverse individual needs.

Educational advancement opportunities may include basic literacy instruction, GED preparation, and continuing education options that help individuals build foundational academic skills. Also available are vocational training opportunities that often focus on developing marketable job skills in various trades and industries. These programs typically provide hands-on experience and certification preparation that can enhance employment prospects upon release.

Therapeutic support services often include chemical dependency treatment programs designed to address substance abuse issues through structured intervention and recovery planning. Individual counseling may also be available to help participants work through personal challenges and develop coping strategies. Also offered are family reunification services that typically focus on rebuilding and strengthening family relationships, along with religious services that provide spiritual support and community connection for those who seek such guidance.

Daily Life & Visitation

The sound of meal trays being distributed typically marks the beginning of structured activity periods throughout the facility. Daily routines at the facility currently follow established security protocols, with individuals participating in scheduled activities that continue to provide structure and purpose. Count times occur regularly, ensuring all residents are accounted for while maintaining the orderly flow of daily operations.

Living accommodations generally consist of shared housing units where individuals are assigned based on classification levels and security requirements. Personal property allowances typically include basic hygiene items, limited clothing, and approved personal effects that may be stored in designated areas. The facility also offers commissary services where individuals can purchase additional items using funds from their accounts, providing some personal choice within the structured environment.

Programming schedules offer various educational and recreational opportunities designed to support rehabilitation goals. Recreation time usually includes access to exercise areas, television viewing, and reading materials from the facility library. However, visitation policies maintain security while allowing family connections through scheduled in-person visits and phone calls. Work assignments within the facility typically provide individuals with productive activities such as kitchen duties, laundry services, and general maintenance tasks that contribute to daily operations while offering structure and responsibility.