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 Third Judicial District Administrative Office.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Third Judicial District Administrative 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 Third Judicial District Administrative Office.

Frequently asked questions about Third Judicial District Administrative 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 Third Judicial District Administrative Office.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Third Judicial District Administrative 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 Third Judicial District Administrative 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 Third Judicial District Administrative 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 Third Judicial District Administrative 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 Third Judicial District Administrative Office?

   Mailing address:

   Third Judicial District Administrative Office
   515 Water St
   Sioux City, IA 51103
   Phone: (712) 252-0590

   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 Third Judicial District Administrative Office?

   Visiting hours at Third Judicial District Administrative 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 (712) 252-0590 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 Third Judicial District Administrative 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 Third Judicial District Administrative Office for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Third Judicial District Administrative Office?

   You can send money to an inmate at Third Judicial District Administrative 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 Third Judicial District Administrative Office?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Third Judicial District Administrative 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 Third Judicial District Administrative 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 Third Judicial District Administrative 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 Third Judicial District Administrative 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

Electronic monitoring technology serves as a cornerstone of community-based supervision within Iowa's Third Judicial District, enabling high-risk individuals to maintain community ties while ensuring public safety through advanced surveillance systems. The district's comprehensive approach extends beyond monitoring to include cognitive education classes that help individuals develop critical thinking skills and decision-making abilities essential for successful reintegration.

Specialized treatment programs address specific needs through sex offender treatment and aftercare groups, providing structured therapeutic interventions for those requiring intensive supervision. The district's pre-trial sentence supervision services may include substance abuse counseling, mental health support, and case management services that help individuals navigate the legal process while maintaining stability in their lives. These evidence-based programs typically focus on addressing underlying issues that contribute to criminal behavior.

Educational and vocational opportunities may include basic literacy programs, GED preparation, and job readiness training designed to improve employment prospects upon release. The facility often provides life skills workshops covering topics such as financial management, parenting classes, and anger management. Support services typically encompass medical care, mental health counseling, and reentry planning assistance to help individuals successfully transition back into their communities while reducing recidivism rates throughout the 16 counties served by the district.

Daily Life & Visitation

Residents within the Iowa Department of Corrections' 3rd District facilities follow structured schedules that may include participation in Cognitive Education Classes and specialized treatment programs. Those under electronic monitoring supervision experience a different routine, as this technology-based supervision often allows individuals to maintain employment or attend approved activities while being continuously tracked. The district's comprehensive approach typically combines residential programming with community-based supervision options across its 16-county service area.

Family connections remain an important aspect of the rehabilitation process, with facilities generally offering scheduled visitation opportunities and phone privileges according to established guidelines. Residents may participate in various treatment programs, including Sex Offender Treatment groups when applicable, which often involve both individual and group sessions. The structured environment typically includes designated times for meals, educational programming, work assignments, and personal time, all designed to help individuals develop positive routines and life skills.

Financial responsibilities are managed through the district's payment system, which accepts major credit cards including American Express, Discover, MasterCard, and Visa for fee payments. The facilities maintain clear policies regarding personal property, correspondence, and behavioral expectations, with staff providing guidance to help residents successfully complete their programs. Those preparing for release may participate in pre-trial supervision or aftercare planning, ensuring continuity of support as they transition back to their communities within the 16 counties served by the 3rd District.