How to contact an inmate at TDCJ Polunsky Unit
This help guide will walk you through how to connect with an inmate. Follow the steps below to find an inmate and send letters and photos:
TDCJ Polunsky Unit inmate search
To contact a person start by searching for the person on the facility website. Perform a search by following these steps:
- Step 1: Enter their first name and last name into the search form and click "Search"
- Step 2: Locate their inmate record
- Step 3: Write down their Inmate ID and any housing information provided
Important! Be sure to enter the persons full name. Nicknames should not be used.
After finding the person you are looking for you can then create a messaging account to send letters and photos.
How to message an inmate
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 an message, start by searching for an inmate at TDCJ Polunsky Unit .
Sending Photos and Postcards
A great way to send love and support to loved one at TDCJ Polunsky Unit 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 TDCJ Polunsky Unit.
Frequently asked questions about TDCJ Polunsky Unit
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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 TDCJ Polunsky Unit.
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How much does it cost to send a message to TDCJ Polunsky Unit?
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.
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What services can I use to contact an inmate at TDCJ Polunsky Unit?
Penmate
You can use Penmate to send letters and photos to an inmate from your phone. It's a 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 TDCJ Polunsky Unit. 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 for 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 TDCJ Polunsky Unit. 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.
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What is the mailing address of TDCJ Polunsky Unit?
Mailing address:
TDCJ Polunsky Unit
3872 FM 350
Livingston , TX 77351
(936) 967-8082Business 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
Overview of TDCJ Polunsky Unit
TDCJ Polunsky Unit is a maximum security prison in Texas that houses male inmates on death row and also serves as the designated execution chamber for the state. The facility is named after Maurice L. Polunsky who is a former chairman of the Texas Board of Criminal Justice. The prison is located near Livingston, Texas and can hold up to 2,904 inmates. Over the years, TDCJ Polunsky Unit has gained notoriety as one of the most secure prisons in America. It has earned this distinction in part due to the presence of multiple watchtowers, surveillance cameras, and high-tech electronic detection systems.
The facility is specifically designed to house and manage high-risk inmates whose behavioral and disciplinary issues frequently exceed the expected range. The prison has three main cell blocks which consist of tiny, windowless cells that measure roughly 8 feet by 12 feet. In each of these cells, there are bunks, a toilet, and a sink. Polunsky is also known for the use of the "Windows of Life" policy - a 280 square foot room fully furnished with two beds, a table, chairs, filtered sunshine, radios and televisions for death row inmates to spend the day with visitors. To qualify for this privilege death row inmates on level four must maintain good behavior for two years before access is granted.
Throughout its history, the Polunsky Unit has hosted some of the most infamous convicted criminals in Texas, including Angel Maturino Res
What services are provided by TDCJ Polunsky Unit?
The TDCJ Polunsky Unit in Texas provides a range of programs and services for its inmates to aid in their rehabilitation, education, and successful reintegration into society. These programs include academic education, vocational training, substance abuse programs, mental health services, and faith-based initiatives.
Academic education is a critical component of the rehabilitation process, as it provides inmates with literacy and numeracy skills that they may have lacked before their incarceration. The Polunsky Unit offers adult basic education courses, high school equivalency programs, and college-level courses in collaboration with local institutions. Vocational training is also available to inmates, allowing them to learn practical job skills and earn certifications in fields such as welding, carpentry, and commercial cleaning.
Substance abuse programs are especially important since drug and alcohol addiction is a significant factor in many inmate’s crimes. The unit offers intensive therapy and counseling for individuals struggling with addiction, as well as relapse prevention and aftercare services to support them after their release. Additionally, mental health services such as individual and group therapy and medication management are available for inmates dealing with various mental health issues.
Lastly, faith-based initiatives are offered to provide spiritual guidance to those who desire it. Chaplains, volunteers and counselors hold religious services, bible studies, and pastoral counseling to improve inmates' moral and spiritual welfare. The goal of offering these programs and services is to assist inmates to progressively acquire values, healthy behaviors, and the social skills necessary to remain productive and crime-free. Ultimately, the TDCJ Polunsky Unit aims to create a safe community, where inmates learn to cease an unbalanced internal struggle to attain a new level of skill and mental faculties.
