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 Stephens County Detention Center.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Stephens 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 Stephens County Detention Center.

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

   Mailing address:

   Stephens County Detention Center
   1677 Scenic Dr
   Toccoa, GA 30577
   Phone: (706) 886-2514

5. What are the visiting hours at Stephens County Detention Center?

   Visiting hours at Stephens 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 (706) 886-2514 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 Stephens 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 Stephens County Detention Center for their specific mail policies.

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

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

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Stephens 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 Stephens 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 Stephens 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 Stephens 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

Personal growth and skill development remain central priorities for those incarcerated at Stephens County Detention Center. The facility typically emphasizes creating structured opportunities that may help individuals build foundations for successful reintegration into their communities. These offerings often focus on developing practical abilities while addressing personal challenges that may have contributed to past difficulties.

Educational advancement opportunities may furnish those incarcerated with pathways to complete their academic goals. The facility often includes basic literacy programs and GED preparation courses designed to help participants strengthen their foundational knowledge. Additionally, vocational training offerings typically provide hands-on experience in practical trades and employment skills. These programs may focus on developing marketable abilities that could support future employment opportunities upon release.

Support services play an essential role in addressing the broader needs of those incarcerated. Faith-based services often provide spiritual guidance and community connection for participants seeking personal reflection and growth. Additionally, physical fitness programs may help individuals maintain their health and develop positive routines during their time at the facility. Parenting classes typically offer valuable guidance for those who are parents, focusing on building stronger family relationships and developing effective communication skills that may benefit their children and families.

Daily Life & Visitation

Family connections remain a vital lifeline for those incarcerated at Stephens County Detention Center, with communication opportunities helping maintain essential bonds with loved ones. Today's routine consistently begins with early morning counts and meal service, followed by structured activities that furnish stability throughout the day. Those incarcerated typically participate in housing unit cleaning, recreational periods, and various programming opportunities designed to support both personal development and community interaction.

Living accommodations generally consist of dormitory-style housing units or individual cells, depending on classification levels and facility capacity. Meals are typically served in designated dining areas at scheduled times, providing opportunities for social interaction among residents. Additionally, those incarcerated may access commissary services to purchase personal items and snacks, while maintaining their living spaces according to facility guidelines.

While security procedures govern daily movements, recreational activities often include television viewing, reading materials, and exercise opportunities in designated areas. Work assignments may include kitchen duties, facility maintenance, or laundry services, which help residents develop skills while contributing to facility operations. Visitation policies typically allow for scheduled visits with family members and approved contacts, and those incarcerated can usually maintain outside connections through monitored phone calls and correspondence, helping preserve important relationships during their time at the facility.