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 Washington County Detention.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Washington County Detention 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 Washington County Detention.

Frequently asked questions about Washington County Detention

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 Washington County Detention.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Washington County Detention?

   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 Washington County Detention?

   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 Washington County Detention. 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 Washington County Detention. 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 Washington County Detention?

   Mailing address:

   Washington County Detention
   1155 W Clydesdale Dr
   Fayetteville, AR 72701
   Phone: (479) 444-5830

5. What are the visiting hours at Washington County Detention?

   Visiting hours at Washington County Detention 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 (479) 444-5830 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 Washington County Detention?

   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 Washington County Detention for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Washington County Detention?

   You can send money to an inmate at Washington County Detention 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 Washington County Detention?

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

   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 Washington County Detention 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 Washington County Detention, 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 Washington County Detention Center in Indiana operates with a modern approach to inmate management, utilizing modern surveillance capabilities that were added during the facility’s 2014 expansion. The facility, which has served the community since 1986 with a 204-inmate capacity, provides essential communication services including inmate phone access and regulated incoming mail systems, ensuring individuals can maintain important connections with family and support networks during their incarceration.

While specific program details are not extensively outlined, the detention center typically may offer educational services such as GED preparation classes and basic literacy programs to help individuals work toward academic goals. Vocational training opportunities might include job readiness workshops and basic computer skills courses, which can be valuable for successful reintegration into the community. The facility also likely provides access to counseling services, which may include substance abuse education programs and mental health support, addressing underlying issues that often contribute to criminal behavior.

Additional support services at the facility may include religious services and chaplaincy programs, medical and mental health care, and pre-release planning assistance. The detention center maintains structured visitation schedules and commissary services, allowing inmates to purchase personal items and maintain some normalcy during their stay. These programs and services work together to create an environment that supports both security and the potential for positive change during an individual’s time at the facility.

Daily Life & Visitation

The Washington County Detention Center, which has served the community since 1986 with its current 204-inmate capacity, operates under structured daily routines that balance security requirements with basic inmate needs. The facility’s 2014 expansion added modern tower features and modern surveillance capabilities, which help staff monitor daily activities while maintaining order throughout the housing units. Inmates typically begin their day with early morning counts and meal service, followed by scheduled activities that may include work assignments, educational programming, or recreational time depending on their classification level and facility policies.

Communication with family and friends remains an important aspect of daily life at the detention center. The facility provides regulated phone services for inmates, allowing them to maintain contact with loved ones during designated hours. Incoming mail is processed according to specific regulations outlined by the facility, and visitors can access detailed visitation schedules and rules through the detention center’s information systems. The commissary service enables inmates to purchase approved personal items and snacks, providing some variety beyond standard institutional meals and helping maintain morale during their stay.

Throughout the day, inmates follow structured schedules that include meal times, recreation periods, and potential programming opportunities. The facility’s staff work to maintain security while ensuring basic needs are met, including medical care when necessary. Evening routines typically involve final counts, quiet hours, and lights-out procedures that prepare the facility for overnight security operations. This structured environment helps maintain order within the 204-bed capacity facility while inmates await court proceedings or serve their sentences.