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 County Detention Facility.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about West County Detention Facility

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 County Detention Facility.

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

   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 County Detention Facility?

   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 County Detention Facility. 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 County Detention Facility. 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 County Detention Facility?

   Mailing address:

   West County Detention Facility
   5555 Giant Hwy
   Richmond, CA 94806
   Phone: (510) 262-4200

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
   • Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
   • Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
   • Thursday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
   • Friday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
   • Saturday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
   • Sunday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

5. What are the visiting hours at West County Detention Facility?

   Visiting hours at West County Detention Facility 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 (510) 262-4200 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 County Detention Facility?

   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 County Detention Facility for their specific mail policies.

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

   You can send money to an inmate at West County Detention Facility 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 County Detention Facility?

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

   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 County Detention Facility 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 County Detention Facility, 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

Rehabilitation and personal development form the cornerstone of the comprehensive opportunities available to individuals at West County Detention. The facility typically maintains a philosophy centered on providing diverse pathways for growth, recognizing that meaningful change often requires access to multiple types of programming. This multifaceted approach may include educational advancement, skill-building initiatives, and therapeutic support services designed to address various aspects of personal development.

Educational initiatives often serve as a foundation for long-term success, with opportunities that may include basic literacy programs, GED preparation, and continuing education courses. Also available are vocational training opportunities that typically focus on developing marketable skills for future employment. These hands-on programs often include construction trades, technical skills development, and other career-focused training designed to enhance job readiness upon release.

Support services extend beyond traditional educational offerings to encompass rehabilitation programs that address underlying issues contributing to criminal behavior. Also integrated into the comprehensive programming structure are practical life skills opportunities, including laundry services training that teaches essential daily living capabilities. Masonry programs may offer individuals the chance to develop specialized construction skills while participating in facility maintenance projects, creating a practical learning environment that benefits both personal development and institutional operations.

Daily Life & Visitation

The sound of morning announcements typically marks the beginning of another structured day for individuals housed within the facility's walls. At present, the daily routine actively revolves around scheduled meal times, programming sessions, and supervised activities that provide both structure and purpose. Generally, individuals wake early for breakfast service, followed by work assignments or educational programming that may continue throughout much of the day.

Housing units at the facility typically accommodate multiple individuals in shared living spaces, with basic furnishings and personal storage areas provided. The dining arrangements usually involve scheduled meal times in common areas, where individuals receive nutritionally planned meals prepared by facility staff. Also, commissary services are generally available, allowing individuals to purchase approved personal items and food products to supplement their basic provisions. However, personal property is typically limited to essential items and must meet facility security guidelines.

Recreation opportunities often include outdoor exercise periods and indoor activities that offer structure and social interaction among residents. Visitation policies generally allow for scheduled visits from approved family members and friends, while telephone access and written correspondence typically provide additional means of maintaining important family connections. Work assignments within the facility may include kitchen duties, maintenance tasks, or other operational support roles that offer individuals the chance to develop skills while contributing to daily facility operations. Also, structured programming schedules often encompass educational classes, counseling sessions, and other rehabilitative services designed to support personal development during incarceration.