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 Vernon County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Vernon 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 Vernon County Jail.

Frequently asked questions about Vernon County Jail

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 Vernon County Jail.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Vernon 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.

3. What services can I use to contact an inmate at Vernon 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 Vernon 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 Vernon 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.

4. What is the mailing address of Vernon County Jail?

   Mailing address:

   Vernon County Jail
   2040 E Hunter St
   Nevada, MO 64772
   Phone: (417) 283-4411

   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 Vernon County Jail?

   Visiting hours at Vernon 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 (417) 283-4411 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 Vernon 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 Vernon County Jail for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Vernon County Jail?

   You can send money to an inmate at Vernon 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.

8. Can I schedule a video visit with an inmate at Vernon County Jail?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Vernon 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.

9. What identification do I need to visit an inmate at Vernon 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 Vernon County Jail 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 Vernon 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.

Programs & Services

Building skills and fostering personal development form the cornerstone of rehabilitation efforts for those incarcerated at Vernon County Jail. The facility recognizes that meaningful change occurs when individuals have access to structured opportunities that address both immediate needs and long-term goals. Through a comprehensive approach that emphasizes security and safety, the jail typically provides various pathways for growth that may help participants develop essential life skills and address underlying challenges that contributed to their incarceration.

Educational offerings often include basic literacy programs and GED preparation courses that allow those incarcerated to advance their academic credentials. These structured learning environments may furnish participants with the foundational knowledge needed for future employment opportunities. Furthermore, vocational training programs typically focus on practical skills development, offering hands-on experience in various trades and technical areas. Such training often emphasizes marketable skills that can support successful reintegration into the community upon release.

Support services play a crucial role in addressing the complex needs of the incarcerated population. Substance abuse treatment programs may provide therapeutic interventions designed to help individuals understand and overcome addiction-related challenges. Furthermore, specialized offerings such as upholstery training can develop both practical skills and work habits, while victim awareness programs typically help participants understand the impact of their actions and develop empathy. These comprehensive support services often work together to create a structured environment where personal growth and accountability may flourish under appropriate security measures.

Daily Life & Visitation

Maintaining connections with family and friends becomes a central focus for those incarcerated at Vernon County Jail, as these relationships often provide crucial emotional support during their time at the facility. The daily routine now revolves around structured activities that begin early in the morning and continue throughout the day. Those incarcerated typically wake to scheduled meal times, with breakfast generally served in the early morning hours followed by various programming opportunities. Count times occur regularly throughout the day, providing structure and accountability while allowing staff to maintain proper supervision of all residents.

Living accommodations at the facility typically consist of shared housing units where those incarcerated may be housed with one or more individuals. These living spaces generally include basic amenities such as beds, storage areas for personal belongings, and access to restroom facilities. Furthermore, the commissary system allows residents to purchase additional items like snacks, hygiene products, and writing materials to supplement what the facility provides. Those incarcerated usually have designated times to access these services, and personal property is typically limited to approved items that meet security requirements.

Structured programming schedules furnish various opportunities for personal development and maintaining outside connections. Visitation policies generally allow family members and approved visitors to meet with those incarcerated during designated hours, though specific arrangements may vary based on security classifications and facility protocols. Although recreational activities are typically limited compared to larger correctional facilities, those incarcerated may have access to exercise periods, television viewing, and reading materials. Work assignments within the facility often include kitchen duties, cleaning responsibilities, and maintenance tasks that help residents stay productive while contributing to daily operations. Communication with the outside world usually occurs through monitored phone calls and written correspondence, helping those incarcerated maintain vital connections with their support networks during their stay at the facility.