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 Wayne County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Wayne 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 Wayne County Jail.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Wayne 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 Wayne 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 Wayne 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 Wayne 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 Wayne County Jail?

   Mailing address:

   Wayne County Jail
   200 E Main St
   Richmond, IN 47374
   Phone: (765) 973-9397

5. What are the visiting hours at Wayne County Jail?

   Visiting hours at Wayne 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 (765) 973-9397 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 Wayne 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 Wayne County Jail for their specific mail policies.

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

   You can send money to an inmate at Wayne 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 Wayne County Jail?

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

Personal growth and skill development form the foundation of rehabilitative services at Wayne County Jail in Indiana. The facility typically emphasizes helping inmates build practical abilities and address underlying challenges that may have contributed to their incarceration. This approach recognizes that meaningful change often requires both educational advancement and personal reflection.

Educational services may provide inmates with opportunities to complete their high school equivalency or pursue basic literacy improvement. These academic offerings often focus on practical skills that support successful reintegration into the community. Also, vocational training services typically include hands-on instruction in trades and technical skills that can lead to employment opportunities upon release. These programs often emphasize marketable skills that align with local job market demands.

Faith-based programs may offer spiritual guidance and counseling services for inmates seeking personal reflection and moral development. These services often provide a supportive community environment where participants can explore values and decision-making skills. Also, work-based services such as laundry operations and facility maintenance typically allow inmates to develop responsibility and work habits while contributing to daily operations. These practical assignments may help participants maintain structure and purpose during their incarceration while building transferable job skills.

Daily Life & Visitation

Concrete walls and metal fixtures define the institutional environment where inmates at Wayne County Jail navigate their daily existence. The facility's housing units typically accommodate multiple individuals in shared living spaces, with basic furnishings including beds, storage areas, and communal bathroom facilities. Inmates now follow structured schedules that regularly include designated times for meals, recreation, and various programming activities.

Living accommodations generally feature dormitory-style or cell-based housing arrangements, depending on classification levels and available space. Inmates typically receive three meals daily in common dining areas, with menu options that meet basic nutritional requirements. Personal property allowances usually include essential items like clothing, hygiene products, and limited personal belongings. Also, commissary services may provide opportunities to purchase additional food items and personal care products.

However, daily structure extends beyond basic housing needs through various programming opportunities. Work assignments often include facility maintenance, kitchen duties, and administrative support tasks that provide inmates with routine responsibilities. Recreation time typically offers access to television viewing areas, reading materials, and physical exercise opportunities. Family connections remain important through scheduled visitation periods and telephone access, though these services generally operate within established security protocols and time restrictions.