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 Walton Correctional Institution.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Walton Correctional Institution 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 Walton Correctional Institution.

Frequently asked questions about Walton Correctional Institution

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 Walton Correctional Institution.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Walton Correctional Institution?

   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 Walton Correctional Institution?

   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 Walton Correctional Institution. 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 Walton Correctional Institution. 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 Walton Correctional Institution?

   Mailing address:

   Walton Correctional Institution
   691 Institution Rd
   Defuniak Springs, FL 32433
   Phone: (850) 951-1300

   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 Walton Correctional Institution?

   Visiting hours at Walton Correctional Institution 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 (850) 951-1300 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 Walton Correctional Institution?

   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 Walton Correctional Institution for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Walton Correctional Institution?

   You can send money to an inmate at Walton Correctional Institution 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 Walton Correctional Institution?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Walton Correctional Institution, 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 Walton Correctional Institution?

   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 Walton Correctional Institution 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 Walton Correctional Institution, 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

Comprehensive rehabilitation initiatives at Walton C.I. in Florida center on addressing the diverse needs of residents through evidence-based programming and skill development opportunities. The facility's approach emphasizes personal growth and community reintegration by providing structured pathways for residents to develop essential life skills, address underlying issues, and prepare for successful transitions. These initiatives typically focus on creating meaningful change through education, therapeutic intervention, and practical skill-building experiences that residents can apply both during incarceration and upon release.

Educational initiatives form a cornerstone of the facility's programming, often including basic literacy instruction, GED preparation, and vocational training opportunities that may prepare residents for employment in various fields. The education programs typically emphasize both academic achievement and practical skills development, helping residents build confidence while acquiring knowledge that supports their long-term success. These educational opportunities often include computer literacy training and career readiness workshops that may enhance residents' employability and provide them with tools for navigating modern workplace environments.

In addition to educational programming, Walton C.I. may deliver comprehensive support services and therapeutic initiatives designed to address specific challenges residents face. Substance abuse treatment programs typically provide counseling and education to help residents develop healthy coping strategies and maintain sobriety. Work release opportunities often allow eligible residents to gain real-world employment experience while maintaining facility supervision, while specialized programs such as painting and decorating training may provide marketable vocational skills. The facility often includes conflict resolution programming to help residents develop better communication and problem-solving abilities, and recycling programs that may teach environmental responsibility while providing structured work experience.

Daily Life & Visitation

Structure delivers stability through a carefully orchestrated daily routine that begins before dawn and continues until evening hours. Residents at Walton C.I. typically follow consistent schedules that include designated times for meals, work assignments, educational programming, and recreational activities. Today's routine generally mirrors yesterday's, creating predictable patterns that many residents find helpful for maintaining focus and personal goals. Count times occur regularly throughout the day, ensuring accountability while maintaining the facility's security protocols.

Living accommodations generally consist of shared housing units where residents may have one or more roommates. Personal property allowances typically include basic clothing, hygiene items, and limited personal effects that residents can store in designated areas. The commissary usually operates on scheduled days, allowing residents to purchase approved items using funds from their institutional accounts. Meals are served in common dining areas at consistent times, with menus that often rotate weekly to provide variety within nutritional guidelines.

In addition to this structured foundation, residents may participate in various work assignments that range from facility maintenance to food service operations. Educational programs often deliver opportunities for academic advancement, while recreational activities typically include access to outdoor exercise areas, library services, and organized sports when available. Despite this busy schedule, family connections remain important through scheduled visitation periods and approved communication methods such as phone calls and correspondence. These elements work together to create an environment where residents can maintain relationships with loved ones while participating in daily routines designed to support personal development and institutional security.