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 Sumter County Detention Center.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Sumter 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 Sumter County Detention Center.

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

   Mailing address:

   Sumter County Detention Center
   219 E Anderson Ave
   Bushnell, FL 33513
   Phone: (352) 569-1700

   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 Sumter County Detention Center?

   Visiting hours at Sumter 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 (352) 569-1700 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 Sumter 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 Sumter County Detention Center for their specific mail policies.

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

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

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Sumter 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 Sumter 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 Sumter 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 Sumter 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 form the cornerstone of rehabilitation efforts at this correctional facility. The services typically emphasize building practical life skills while addressing underlying issues that may have contributed to incarceration. Inmates often participate in structured activities designed to prepare them for successful community reintegration upon release.

Educational services may provide foundational learning opportunities through basic literacy and numeracy instruction. The facility often includes vocational training components that teach marketable job skills in various trades. These educational offerings typically focus on helping inmates earn credentials or certifications that can improve their employment prospects after release.

Furthermore, therapeutic services address personal challenges through substance abuse treatment and cognitive behavioral therapy sessions. Support services may include work release opportunities that allow eligible inmates to maintain employment while serving their sentences. Life coaching services often help participants develop healthy relationship skills and create comprehensive reentry preparation plans. These combined services typically work together to address both immediate needs and long-term success factors for inmates preparing to return to their communities.

Daily Life & Visitation

The housing units at Sumter County Detention Center feature dormitory-style accommodations and individual cells that shape the daily rhythm of institutional life. Inmates consistently follow structured schedules that begin with early morning wake-up calls and count procedures. Today's routine typically includes designated meal times, work assignments, and supervised activities that provide order throughout the facility.

Living conditions generally involve shared spaces where inmates adapt to close quarters with limited privacy. Housing assignments may vary based on classification levels and available space within the facility. Inmates typically receive basic bedding, personal hygiene items, and have access to commissary services for additional necessities. Furthermore, personal property allowances usually include limited clothing items and approved personal effects that help maintain connections to life outside the facility.

Although movement throughout the facility remains restricted and supervised, inmates often participate in recreational activities, educational programs, and work assignments that provide structure and purpose. Visitation policies typically allow scheduled visits with family members and approved contacts, while phone access generally enables regular communication with support networks. Work opportunities may include kitchen duties, facility maintenance, and laundry services that help inmates develop routines and contribute to daily operations. These various programs and activities help inmates adapt to the institutional environment while maintaining important family connections during their time at the facility.