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 Vanderburgh County Sheriff.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Vanderburgh County Sheriff 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 Vanderburgh County Sheriff.

Frequently asked questions about Vanderburgh County Sheriff

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 Vanderburgh County Sheriff.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Vanderburgh County Sheriff?

   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 Vanderburgh County Sheriff?

   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 Vanderburgh County Sheriff. 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 Vanderburgh County Sheriff. 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 Vanderburgh County Sheriff?

   Mailing address:

   Vanderburgh County Sheriff
   3500 N Harlan Ave
   Evansville, IN 47711
   Phone: (812) 421-6276

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
   • Tuesday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
   • Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
   • Thursday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
   • Friday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
   • Saturday: Closed
   • Sunday: Closed

5. What are the visiting hours at Vanderburgh County Sheriff?

   Visiting hours at Vanderburgh County Sheriff 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 (812) 421-6276 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 Vanderburgh County Sheriff?

   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 Vanderburgh County Sheriff for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Vanderburgh County Sheriff?

   You can send money to an inmate at Vanderburgh County Sheriff 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 Vanderburgh County Sheriff?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Vanderburgh County Sheriff, 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 Vanderburgh County Sheriff?

   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 Vanderburgh County Sheriff 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 Vanderburgh County Sheriff, 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

Communication services form a cornerstone of inmate support at Vanderburgh County Detention Center, with comprehensive mail and electronic messaging systems designed to help maintain family connections and legal representation. The facility operates a structured correspondence program that accepts standard letters, store-bought greeting cards, and photographs up to 5" x 7", while inmates can access electronic communications through video conferencing and digital messaging via InmateSales.com. Legal correspondence receives special handling through a dedicated email system for attorneys, ensuring confidential communication between inmates and their legal counsel.

The detention center typically may offer educational programming that could include GED preparation courses, basic literacy instruction, and life skills training to help inmates develop essential competencies. Vocational services often include job readiness workshops, basic computer skills training, and pre-release employment preparation programs. These educational initiatives are commonly supplemented by library services that provide access to legal research materials, educational resources, and recreational reading materials.

Counseling and support services may encompass substance abuse education programs, mental health counseling, and religious services to address various aspects of inmate rehabilitation. The facility often provides access to social workers who can assist with discharge planning, family reunification services, and connections to community resources upon release. Medical and dental care services are typically available to address inmates' healthcare needs, while the commissary system allows inmates to purchase personal items and pre-stamped envelopes, with provisions for indigent inmates who cannot afford postage for maintaining family contact.

Daily Life & Visitation

Communication with family and friends forms a central part of the inmate experience at Vanderburgh County Detention Center. Inmates may send and receive letters through the facility's mail system, with correspondence addressed to the detention center's Highland Heights postal box. The facility maintains specific guidelines for acceptable mail, including store-bought cards without glitter or electronic components, photographs measuring 5" x 7" or smaller, and standard envelope sizes up to 8 ½ x 11 inches. For those who cannot afford postage, the facility typically provides stamped envelopes to indigent inmates, while others may purchase pre-stamped envelopes through the commissary system.

The detention center offers modern communication options beyond traditional mail, including electronic messaging and video conferencing services through InmateSales.com. Families can deposit funds into inmates' commissary accounts using the 24-hour kiosk system in the jail lobby or through online services, allowing inmates to purchase necessary items and maintain some personal autonomy. Legal communications receive special handling, with attorneys required to establish accounts through designated email channels to ensure proper delivery of legal correspondence.

Daily routines at the facility likely follow standard correctional practices common throughout Indiana, which may include scheduled meal times, recreation periods, and programming opportunities. Inmates typically spend their days in housing units with access to dayrooms for television viewing and social interaction during designated hours. While specific programming details aren't outlined in available information, many similar facilities often provide educational opportunities, work assignments, and recreational activities to help structure inmates' time and support rehabilitation efforts during their stay.