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 Western Tidewater Regional Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Western Tidewater Regional 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 Western Tidewater Regional Jail.

Frequently asked questions about Western Tidewater Regional 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 Western Tidewater Regional Jail.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Western Tidewater Regional 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 Western Tidewater Regional 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 Western Tidewater Regional 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 Western Tidewater Regional 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 Western Tidewater Regional Jail?

   Mailing address:

   Western Tidewater Regional Jail
   2402 Godwin Blvd
   Suffolk, VA 23434
   Phone: (757) 539-3119

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 6:00 AM – 3:00 AM
   • Tuesday: 6:00 AM – 3:00 AM
   • Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 3:00 AM
   • Thursday: 6:00 AM – 3:00 AM
   • Friday: Closed
   • Saturday: 6:00 AM – 3:00 AM
   • Sunday: 9:00 AM – 2:00 AM

5. What are the visiting hours at Western Tidewater Regional Jail?

   Visiting hours at Western Tidewater Regional 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 (757) 539-3119 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 Western Tidewater Regional 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 Western Tidewater Regional Jail for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Western Tidewater Regional Jail?

   You can send money to an inmate at Western Tidewater Regional 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 Western Tidewater Regional Jail?

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

The Western Tidewater Regional Jail operates several key programs designed to support those in custody, including the ICARE program and various inmate services coordinated through Connect Network and GTL systems. These initiatives reflect the facility's commitment to providing comprehensive care and support services while maintaining security for the communities of Franklin, Hampton, Suffolk, and Isle of Wight County.

Educational and vocational programming at the facility may include GED preparation classes, basic literacy instruction, and job readiness training to help prepare individuals for successful reintegration. The jail typically offers substance abuse counseling and mental health services, recognizing that addressing underlying issues is crucial for reducing recidivism. Religious services and chaplaincy programs are often available to provide spiritual support and guidance during incarceration.

Support services extend to maintaining family connections through the facility's messaging system and phone services managed through GTL, while commissary services through Oasis and MX Merchant help meet daily needs. The jail may also provide work programs that allow inmates to develop job skills while contributing to facility operations. Additionally, the facility often coordinates with community organizations to offer life skills classes, anger management programs, and pre-release planning services to help individuals transition successfully back to their communities upon release.

Daily Life & Visitation

Inmates at Western Tidewater Regional Jail begin their days within a structured environment designed to serve the residents of Franklin, Hampton, Suffolk, and Isle of Wight County. The facility operates with a clear mission of providing care, custody, and support to those lawfully placed in their charge, which shapes every aspect of the daily routine. Morning activities typically include scheduled counts, meal service, and preparation for various programs or work assignments that may be available throughout the day.

Communication with family and friends plays a vital role in daily life at the facility. The jail utilizes GTL services for inmate phone calls, allowing residents to maintain important connections with their support networks. Additionally, inmates may access messaging services through the Connect Network system, providing another avenue for staying in touch with loved ones. For those approved for electronic monitoring programs, daily life may include regular check-ins and compliance with specific movement restrictions while serving their sentences in the community.

The facility's commissary services, operated through Oasis Commissary and featuring Aramark Fresh Favorites, allow inmates to purchase approved items to supplement their daily needs. Various inmate programs may be available to help structure time constructively, though specific offerings can vary based on facility capacity and resources. Throughout each day, security procedures and scheduled activities work together to maintain the safe and orderly environment that Western Tidewater Regional Jail strives to provide for both inmates and staff.