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 Tri-County Detention Center Chicago Field Office.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Tri-County Detention Center Chicago Field 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 Tri-County Detention Center Chicago Field Office.

Frequently asked questions about Tri-County Detention Center Chicago Field 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 Tri-County Detention Center Chicago Field Office.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Tri-County Detention Center Chicago Field 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 Tri-County Detention Center Chicago Field 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 Tri-County Detention Center Chicago Field 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 Tri-County Detention Center Chicago Field 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 Tri-County Detention Center Chicago Field Office?

   Mailing address:

   Tri-County Detention Center Chicago Field Office
   1026 Shawnee College Rd
   Ullin, IL 62992
   Phone: (312) 347-2400

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Thursday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Saturday: Closed
   • Sunday: Closed

5. What are the visiting hours at Tri-County Detention Center Chicago Field Office?

   Visiting hours at Tri-County Detention Center Chicago Field 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 (312) 347-2400 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 Tri-County Detention Center Chicago Field 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 Tri-County Detention Center Chicago Field Office for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Tri-County Detention Center Chicago Field Office?

   You can send money to an inmate at Tri-County Detention Center Chicago Field 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 Tri-County Detention Center Chicago Field Office?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Tri-County Detention Center Chicago Field 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 Tri-County Detention Center Chicago Field 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 Tri-County Detention Center Chicago Field 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 Tri-County Detention Center Chicago Field 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

The Pulaski County Detention Center operates as a 240-bed facility serving multiple jurisdictions, including Pulaski County, Alexander County, and the United States Marshals Service. With its commitment to equal opportunity employment practices and compliance with federal standards, the facility typically maintains various programs designed to support those in custody. The center provides essential services including commissary access for personal items and maintains visitation programs to help individuals stay connected with family and friends during their detention.

While specific program details are not extensively outlined on the facility's website, detention centers in Illinois commonly offer educational opportunities such as GED preparation classes, basic literacy programs, and life skills training. The facility may also provide counseling services, including substance abuse programs and mental health support, which are standard components of modern correctional operations. Additionally, the center likely offers religious services and recreational activities as part of its comprehensive approach to maintaining a structured environment.

The facility demonstrates its commitment to transparency and accountability through compliance with Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) standards, conducting regular audits and maintaining annual reports. Employment opportunities at the detention center reflect the facility's dedication to professional standards and equal opportunity practices. For families and friends of those detained, the center provides multiple communication options and maintains clear procedures for visitation and financial support through commissary services, ensuring that important connections can be maintained during the detention period.

Daily Life & Visitation

The 240-bed facility serves detainees from Pulaski County, Alexander County, and houses individuals for the United States Marshals Service, creating a diverse population with varying custody levels and daily schedules. Located at 20 Justice Drive in Ullin, the detention center operates under federal oversight standards, including compliance with Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) requirements and National Commission on Correctional Health Care (NCCHC) guidelines that help shape the daily operational structure.

Family connections remain a priority through established visitation programs, though detainees and their families should stay informed about current policies as changes may occur. The facility typically maintains structured daily routines that often include scheduled meal times, recreation periods, and programming opportunities, though specific activities may vary based on housing assignments and security classifications. Medical care follows NCCHC standards, ensuring detainees receive appropriate healthcare services as part of their daily experience.

Communication with the outside world is facilitated through various means, including the commissary system for purchasing approved items, though families should note that the JPay electronic system may occasionally experience outages. During such times, financial support can be sent via US Postal Money Orders to the facility address. The detention center's commitment to equal opportunity employment and maintaining a harassment-free environment for staff often translates into professional interactions that help maintain order and respect throughout daily operations for those in custody.