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 West Baton Rouge Parish Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at West Baton Rouge Parish 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 West Baton Rouge Parish Jail.

Frequently asked questions about West Baton Rouge Parish 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 West Baton Rouge Parish Jail.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to West Baton Rouge Parish 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 West Baton Rouge Parish 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 West Baton Rouge Parish 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 West Baton Rouge Parish 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 West Baton Rouge Parish Jail?

   Mailing address:

   West Baton Rouge Parish Jail
   1150 Northwest Dr
   Port Allen, LA 70767
   Phone: (225) 346-6420

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Tuesday: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Wednesday: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Thursday: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Friday: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Saturday: Closed
   • Sunday: Closed

5. What are the visiting hours at West Baton Rouge Parish Jail?

   Visiting hours at West Baton Rouge Parish 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 (225) 346-6420 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 West Baton Rouge Parish 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 West Baton Rouge Parish Jail for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at West Baton Rouge Parish Jail?

   You can send money to an inmate at West Baton Rouge Parish 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 West Baton Rouge Parish Jail?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At West Baton Rouge Parish 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 West Baton Rouge Parish 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 West Baton Rouge Parish 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 West Baton Rouge Parish 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

Multiple pathways for personal growth and skill development form the foundation of opportunities at West Baton Rouge Detention. The facility typically recognizes that meaningful change occurs when individuals have access to diverse programming that addresses different aspects of their lives. This comprehensive approach often includes educational advancement, practical skill building, and personal support services designed to help participants prepare for successful reintegration into their communities.

Educational opportunities may include basic literacy programs, GED preparation, and continuing education courses that help individuals advance their academic credentials. Vocational training programs often focus on practical skills that translate directly to employment opportunities, with automotive repair training being a key component of the facility's workforce development efforts. These hands-on programs typically provide individuals with marketable skills and industry-relevant experience that can support their transition back into the community.

In addition to these educational and vocational opportunities, the facility often provides comprehensive support services that address personal and spiritual needs. Faith-based services typically offer individuals opportunities for spiritual growth and community connection, while food service operations may provide both practical work experience and essential life skills. These support programs often work together to create a network of resources that help individuals develop the tools and confidence needed for positive life changes.

Daily Life & Visitation

The sound of morning announcements typically marks the beginning of each day for individuals housed at West Baton Rouge Detention Center. Today's routine generally follows a structured schedule that includes meals, recreation periods, and various programming opportunities. Consistently, individuals participate in organized activities designed to maintain order and provide meaningful engagement throughout their stay.

Living accommodations at the facility generally consist of shared housing units where individuals may be assigned based on classification levels and security considerations. Personal belongings are typically limited to approved items, and individuals often have access to commissary services for additional necessities and comfort items. The dining arrangements usually involve scheduled meal times in designated areas, with menus that aim to meet basic nutritional requirements while accommodating certain dietary restrictions.

In addition to this structured daily routine, the facility may offer recreational activities such as television viewing, reading materials, and limited physical exercise opportunities when space and staffing permit. Despite this controlled environment, individuals typically have access to communication options including phone calls and mail correspondence to maintain connections with family members and support systems. Work assignments within the facility often provide structure and may include tasks related to facility maintenance, kitchen duties, or cleaning responsibilities, though availability depends on operational needs and individual eligibility.