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How to contact an inmate at Upshur County Jail
This comprehensive guide will walk you through how to connect with an inmate at Upshur County Jail. Follow the steps below to find an inmate and send letters and photos:
- Search for the inmate using our search tool below
- Create your account or log in to Penmate
- Write your message (up to 6,000 characters)
- Send instantly - inmates receive printed copies daily
Find an Inmate
Search for an inmate to start communicating today
Tip: You can search by first name, last name, or inmate ID number
To contact a person at Upshur County Jail 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 person's full name. Nicknames should not be used.
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 Upshur County Jail.
Sending Photos and Postcards
A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Upshur County Jail 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 Upshur County Jail.
Frequently asked questions about Upshur County Jail
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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 Upshur County Jail.
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How much does it cost to send a message to Upshur County Jail?
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 Upshur County Jail?
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 Upshur County Jail. 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 Upshur County Jail. 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 Upshur County Jail?
Mailing address:
Upshur County Jail
405 Titus St
Gilmer, TX 75644
Phone: (903) 843-2541 -
What are the visiting hours at Upshur County Jail?
Visiting hours at Upshur County Jail 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 (903) 843-2541 or check their website for the current visiting schedule. Visits typically last 30-60 minutes and must be scheduled in advance.
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What items are prohibited when sending mail to Upshur County Jail?
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 Upshur County Jail for their specific mail policies.
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How do I send money to an inmate at Upshur County Jail?
You can send money to an inmate at Upshur County Jail 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.
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Can I schedule a video visit with an inmate at Upshur County Jail?
Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Upshur County Jail, 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.
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What identification do I need to visit an inmate at Upshur County Jail?
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 Upshur County Jail for specific ID requirements and visitor approval procedures.
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How can I find out an inmate's release date?
To find an inmate's release date at Upshur County Jail, 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.
Facility Overview
About Upshur County Jail
Within the East Texas community of Longview, public safety infrastructure extends beyond traditional law enforcement through comprehensive correctional services that address both immediate security needs and long-term community stability. The Upshur County Jail, TX operates as an integral component of the regional justice system, providing secure detention services while maintaining focus on rehabilitation opportunities that may help reduce recidivism rates. This TX correctional facility typically manages pre-trial detainees, sentenced individuals serving shorter terms, and those awaiting transfer to state facilities, creating a multifaceted operational environment that requires careful attention to diverse population needs.
The facility's systemic role within Texas's broader correctional framework generally encompasses multiple operational dimensions, from initial intake processing through potential reentry preparation. Inmates services often include basic medical care, educational programming opportunities, and substance abuse counseling resources, though specific offerings may vary based on available funding and staffing levels. The county jail typically coordinates with local courts, probation departments, and community organizations to facilitate case processing and support continuity of care for individuals transitioning back into the Longview area.
Administrative operations generally emphasize maintaining security protocols while supporting rehabilitation efforts that align with contemporary correctional best practices. The facility may offer work programs, religious services, and family visitation opportunities designed to preserve community connections during incarceration periods. Through these comprehensive approaches, the institution contributes to public safety objectives while recognizing that effective correctional services often require balancing immediate detention needs with longer-term community reintegration goals.
Programs & Services
Personal growth and skill development form the cornerstone of rehabilitation efforts within Upshur County Jail's service framework. The facility typically emphasizes preparing inmates for successful community reintegration through a comprehensive approach that addresses both practical skills and personal transformation. These services often focus on building foundational competencies that inmates can apply immediately upon release, while also fostering the personal accountability and time management skills necessary for long-term success.
Educational and vocational opportunities may provide inmates with marketable skills for future employment. Vocational training services typically offer hands-on learning experiences that prepare participants for various trades and industries. Additionally, electrical work training often gives inmates specialized technical skills that are in demand in the job market. These educational components usually emphasize both theoretical knowledge and practical application, helping inmates develop confidence in their abilities while building a foundation for economic stability.
Support services play a crucial role in addressing the underlying factors that contribute to recidivism. Work programs typically provide inmates with structured daily routines and the opportunity to develop strong work habits and interpersonal skills. Faith-based initiatives may offer spiritual guidance and community support for those seeking personal transformation through religious or spiritual practices. Additionally, time management services often help inmates develop the organizational and planning skills essential for maintaining employment, meeting obligations, and making positive life choices after release. These support services usually work together to create a holistic approach to rehabilitation that addresses both practical needs and personal development.
Daily Life & Visitation
The concrete walls and steel doors of the housing units at Upshur County Jail create a controlled environment where inmates must quickly learn to navigate structured routines and limited personal space. At present, the facility actively maintains a schedule that begins early each morning with headcounts and continues through designated meal times, work assignments, and evening lockdown procedures. Inmates typically adapt by establishing personal routines within the broader institutional framework, finding ways to maintain dignity and purpose despite the restrictive setting.
Living accommodations generally consist of shared cells or dormitory-style housing units, where inmates may be housed with one or more cellmates depending on classification levels and available space. Personal belongings are usually limited to essential items and approved commissary purchases, with storage confined to small lockers or designated areas within each housing unit. Meals are typically served in common dining areas or delivered to housing units, providing basic nutrition while inmates often supplement their diet through commissary purchases when funds are available.
Additionally, the facility may offer recreational opportunities such as television viewing in common areas, limited outdoor recreation time, and access to reading materials through a library system. While programming schedules can provide structure through educational classes, religious services, or substance abuse counseling, availability often depends on staffing and facility resources. Family connections remain vital for most inmates, with visitation typically conducted through scheduled appointments and phone calls that help maintain important relationships during incarceration. Work assignments within the facility, such as kitchen duties, cleaning, or laundry services, provide both structure and a small income while helping inmates develop responsibility and routine.
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