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 Summit County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Summit 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 Summit County Jail.

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

   Mailing address:

   Summit County Jail
   205 E Crosier St
   Akron, OH 44311
   Phone: (330) 643-2171

   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 Summit County Jail?

   Visiting hours at Summit 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) 643-2171 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 Summit 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 Summit County Jail for their specific mail policies.

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

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

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Summit 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 Summit 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 Summit 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 Summit 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 Jail's Inmate Services department operates with a comprehensive approach to addressing inmates' non-medical social service needs through dedicated staff including a supervisor, four officers, and specialized clerks. This department manages essential services such as commissary operations through Keefe Commissary Company, inmate accounts, family and professional visitation coordination, and assistance with legal representation contacts. The facility has implemented modern conveniences including online commissary ordering through StarkPackages.com, allowing families to purchase items directly for inmates, and lobby kiosks for electronic fund deposits to replace traditional mail-based money transfers.

Beyond basic services, the jail typically may offer educational programming, substance abuse counseling, and job readiness training to support rehabilitation efforts. The facility often includes library services with book distribution, personal hygiene assistance including haircuts, and comprehensive property management for inmates. Mental health support services may be available through partnerships with local providers, while religious services and chaplaincy programs often provide spiritual guidance and counseling opportunities.

The jail's approach to inmate welfare extends to practical support through hygiene kits, care packages, and specialized clothing for work assignments including winter coveralls for outdoor workers. Revenue from commissary sales directly benefits the inmate population by funding supplies, equipment, clothing for indigent inmates, and uniforms. Additional programming may include life skills workshops, anger management classes, and pre-release planning services to help individuals prepare for successful community reintegration upon release.

Daily Life & Visitation

Inmates at Stark County Jail can access commissary services three days per week through the facility's partnership with Keefe Commissary Company, allowing them to purchase hygiene products, clothing, food items, and games. 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 haircuts within the facility.

Communication with the outside world typically follows structured schedules, with inmates able to make phone calls for legal representation and social services with assistance from Inmate Services staff. Family and professional visitation is coordinated through the department, providing inmates regular opportunities to maintain connections with loved ones. The facility has modernized its financial systems by installing a kiosk in the lobby where families can deposit cash or use credit cards to fund inmate accounts, as money through the mail is no longer accepted. These funds allow inmates to purchase commissary items and make phone calls throughout their stay.

The facility's approach to inmate welfare extends beyond basic needs, as profits from commissary sales are reinvested to benefit the inmate population. These funds typically support hygiene products and clothing for indigent inmates, winter gear for those working outside, and general uniforms and footwear. Inmates may receive care packages assembled and distributed by staff, along with hygiene kits, handbooks, and library books to support their daily routines. Professional appointments with outside agencies are arranged and supervised on-site, ensuring inmates can access necessary services while maintaining facility security protocols.