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 Swain County Sheriff's Office.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Swain 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 Swain County Sheriff's Office.

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

   Mailing address:

   Swain County Sheriff's Office
   95 Brendle St
   Bryson City, NC 28713
   Phone: (828) 488-0159

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Saturday: Closed
   • Sunday: Closed

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

   Visiting hours at Swain 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 (828) 488-0159 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 Swain 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 Swain County Sheriff's Office for their specific mail policies.

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

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

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

Support flows through comprehensive programming designed to address the diverse needs of the population at Swain County Jail. The facility typically emphasizes a holistic approach that connects individuals with resources and skills essential for successful community reintegration. These programs often focus on building stability through education, practical training, and therapeutic intervention while maintaining strong connections to family and community support systems.

Educational services form a cornerstone of the facility's offerings, providing opportunities for the population to advance their academic foundation. The jail may supply basic literacy instruction, GED preparation, and continuing education options that help participants build confidence and expand their future opportunities. In addition to this, vocational training programs often include hands-on instruction in practical skills that translate directly to employment possibilities upon release. These training opportunities typically prepare individuals for various trades and may include specialized instruction such as commercial driving (CDL) preparation.

Support services extend beyond traditional programming to encompass therapeutic interventions and community connections. Substance abuse programs provide essential treatment and counseling services, helping participants address underlying issues that may have contributed to their incarceration. The facility often facilitates community resource connections, linking the population with local organizations, support groups, and services that can provide ongoing assistance. These comprehensive support networks typically emphasize maintaining family relationships and building the foundation for successful reentry into the community.

Daily Life & Visitation

Structured routines and clear organizational protocols shape every aspect of the experience for the population at Swain County Jail. Daily schedules currently follow established patterns that include designated times for meals, recreation, and various activities, while administrative procedures continue to maintain order throughout the facility. The population typically moves through their day according to predetermined schedules that supply consistency and predictability to institutional life.

Housing arrangements generally feature multiple occupancy cells or dormitory-style units, where the population shares common living spaces under continuous supervision. Living accommodations usually include basic furnishings and personal storage areas, while dining arrangements typically involve scheduled meal service in designated areas. In addition to this structured environment, the facility may offer recreational opportunities such as television viewing, reading materials, and limited physical exercise periods when space and staffing permit.

Programming schedules often include work assignments within the facility, which may involve kitchen duties, cleaning responsibilities, or maintenance tasks that help maintain daily operations. The population typically has access to communication options such as telephone calls and mail services, while visitation policies generally allow for scheduled visits with family members and approved contacts. Despite this structured environment, commissary services usually supply additional personal items and snacks, helping the population maintain connections to life outside the facility through these small but meaningful purchases.