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 Steele County Detention Center.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Steele County Detention Center 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 Steele County Detention Center.

Frequently asked questions about Steele County Detention Center

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 Steele County Detention Center.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Steele County Detention Center?

   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 Steele County Detention Center?

   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 Steele County Detention Center. 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 Steele County Detention Center. 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 Steele County Detention Center?

   Mailing address:

   Steele County Detention Center
   2500 Alexander St SW
   Owatonna, MN 55060
   Phone: (507) 446-7000

   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 Steele County Detention Center?

   Visiting hours at Steele County Detention Center 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 (507) 446-7000 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 Steele County Detention Center?

   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 Steele County Detention Center for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Steele County Detention Center?

   You can send money to an inmate at Steele County Detention Center 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 Steele County Detention Center?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Steele County Detention Center, 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 Steele County Detention Center?

   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 Steele County Detention Center 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 Steele County Detention Center, 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

Located at 2500 Alexander Street in Owatonna, the Steele County Detention Center operates around the clock to provide essential services and programming for individuals in custody. While the facility maintains standard operating hours of Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. for administrative functions, the detention center itself functions continuously to ensure proper supervision and care.

The facility typically focuses on providing foundational services that support both immediate needs and longer-term reintegration goals. Educational programming may include basic literacy instruction, GED preparation, and life skills training to help individuals develop essential competencies. Counseling services often encompass substance abuse treatment, mental health support, and behavioral intervention programs designed to address underlying issues that may contribute to criminal behavior. The detention center may also coordinate with community organizations to provide religious services, family visitation opportunities, and pre-release planning assistance.

Vocational and work-related programming typically includes job readiness training, basic computer skills instruction, and work assignments within the facility that help individuals maintain structure and develop workplace habits. Medical and mental health services are generally available to address both routine and emergency healthcare needs. The facility may offer anger management classes, parenting programs, and financial literacy education as part of its comprehensive approach to supporting successful community reintegration upon release.

Daily Life & Visitation

Located at 2500 Alexander Street in Owatonna, the Steele County Detention Center operates around the clock to house individuals awaiting trial or serving shorter sentences. The facility's administrative offices maintain regular business hours from Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., excluding holidays, though the detention center itself functions continuously to ensure proper supervision and care of inmates.

Inmates at the Steele County facility typically follow a structured daily schedule that may include designated meal times, recreational periods, and opportunities for educational or work programs. Like most Minnesota county jails, the facility likely provides basic necessities including meals, medical care, and access to legal counsel. The detention center often facilitates communication between inmates and their families through scheduled visitation periods and monitored phone calls, though specific visiting hours and policies may vary and should be confirmed by contacting the facility directly at 507.446.7000.

The facility's continuous operation ensures that essential services such as security monitoring, meal service, and emergency medical response remain available at all times. Inmates may have access to recreational activities, library services, or educational programming depending on the facility's current offerings and individual circumstances. Those seeking information about specific policies, visiting procedures, or inmate services can contact the detention center during regular office hours or inquire about after-hours procedures for urgent matters.