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 Tazewell County Prisoner Info.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Tazewell County Prisoner Info 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 Tazewell County Prisoner Info.

Frequently asked questions about Tazewell County Prisoner Info

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 Tazewell County Prisoner Info.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Tazewell County Prisoner Info?

   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 Tazewell County Prisoner Info?

   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 Tazewell County Prisoner Info. 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 Tazewell County Prisoner Info. 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 Tazewell County Prisoner Info?

   Mailing address:

   Tazewell County Prisoner Info
   101 S Capitol St
   Pekin, IL 61554
   Phone: (309) 477-2253

5. What are the visiting hours at Tazewell County Prisoner Info?

   Visiting hours at Tazewell County Prisoner Info 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 (309) 477-2253 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 Tazewell County Prisoner Info?

   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 Tazewell County Prisoner Info for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Tazewell County Prisoner Info?

   You can send money to an inmate at Tazewell County Prisoner Info 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 Tazewell County Prisoner Info?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Tazewell County Prisoner Info, 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 Tazewell County Prisoner Info?

   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 Tazewell County Prisoner Info 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 Tazewell County Prisoner Info, 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 Tazewell County Justice Center operates under comprehensive standards that prioritize both security and detainee welfare, with services designed to support individuals during their incarceration. The facility maintains strict compliance with the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) through annual reporting and ongoing safety measures, while providing essential communication services through a digital mail system that allows detainees to access correspondence via touchscreen kiosks and tablets. Financial support for detainees is facilitated through multiple deposit options, including lobby kiosks and online platforms, ensuring families can maintain connections during difficult times.

Beyond basic operational services, the facility typically may offer educational programming, substance abuse counseling, and mental health services common to Illinois county correctional facilities. Detainees often have access to library services, religious programming, and recreational activities that support rehabilitation goals. The Justice Center may also provide vocational training opportunities and life skills workshops designed to prepare individuals for successful reintegration into the community upon release.

The facility’s commitment to maintaining professional standards extends to its visitation policies and property management procedures, including provisions for court-appropriate clothing for detainees facing jury trials. Medical services, classification assessments, and discharge planning are typically integral components of the facility’s operations, though specific program details may vary based on funding and staffing availability. The Justice Center’s approach reflects modern correctional practices that balance security requirements with rehabilitation-focused programming.

Daily Life & Visitation

The Tazewell County Justice Center operates under structured communication protocols that shape how detainees maintain connections with the outside world. Beginning June 23, 2025, the facility implemented a digital mail system where detainees access their correspondence through touchscreen kiosks and tablets rather than receiving physical letters. All non-legal mail must be sent to a processing center in Phoenix, Maryland, with strict addressing requirements that include the detainee’s full name and ID number. Legal mail, money orders, and personal checks are returned to senders, while dedicated cashier’s checks or certified checks are accepted for detainee accounts through the mail system.

Detainees at the facility typically follow standard correctional schedules that may include designated meal times, recreation periods, and programming opportunities. The jail maintains visiting procedures for family members and friends, though specific visiting hours and protocols would need to be confirmed directly with the facility. For those preparing for court appearances, the jail accepts one item each of appropriate clothing including suits, dress shirts, ties, shoes, and other professional attire, ensuring detainees can present themselves properly during legal proceedings.

Financial transactions and property management follow established security protocols at the Justice Center. Family members can deposit funds for detainees using the kiosk located in the lobby with cash or credit cards, or through the Smart Deposit online system and phone service available Monday through Friday. The facility operates under the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) standards and publishes annual compliance reports, maintaining safety protocols that are typical of modern correctional facilities. Property release requires specific court orders, reflecting the structured approach to managing detainee belongings during their stay at the facility.