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 Will County Adult Detention Facility.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Will County Adult 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 Will County Adult Detention Facility.

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

   Mailing address:

   Will County Adult Detention Facility
   95 S Chicago St
   Joliet, IL 60436
   Phone: (815) 740-1250

   Business hours:

   • Monday: Open 24 hours
   • Tuesday: Open 24 hours
   • Wednesday: Open 24 hours
   • Thursday: Open 24 hours
   • Friday: Open 24 hours
   • Saturday: Open 24 hours
   • Sunday: Open 24 hours

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

   Visiting hours at Will County Adult 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 (815) 740-1250 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 Will County Adult 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 Will County Adult Detention Facility for their specific mail policies.

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

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

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

The Will County Adult Detention Facility operates under a direct supervision philosophy that emphasizes both public safety and inmate rehabilitation through structured programming. The facility provides educational services designed to help individuals develop essential skills during their detention, along with substance abuse programs that address underlying issues contributing to criminal behavior. Religious services are also available, offering spiritual support and guidance to those seeking faith-based assistance during their incarceration.

The facility's comprehensive approach typically includes various support services that may encompass vocational training opportunities, mental health counseling, and life skills development programs. Through partnerships with organizations like the Center for Correctional Concerns (CCC), inmates often have access to additional resources that focus on successful community reintegration. These programs may include job readiness training, anger management courses, and financial literacy education to help individuals prepare for their eventual release.

Given the facility's commitment to maintaining American Correctional Association accreditation standards, the programming structure likely emphasizes evidence-based practices in correctional rehabilitation. The direct supervision model, combined with the facility's podular architectural design, creates an environment that may facilitate more effective program delivery and positive interactions between staff and inmates. Additional services often available at similar facilities may include library access, recreational activities, and family support programs that help maintain important community connections during incarceration.

Daily Life & Visitation

The Will County Adult Detention Facility operates under a direct supervision philosophy within its podular architectural design, where inmates are housed in cells clustered around common day rooms, exercise areas, and visitation spaces. This 318,000 square foot facility, which expanded significantly in 2009 to accommodate over 1,000 inmates, maintains its accreditation through the American Correctional Association by adhering to 385 nationally accepted standards for adult local detention operations.

Inmates at the facility typically follow structured daily schedules that may include meals served in housing units, supervised recreation time in the common areas, and access to various programs offered through the facility. The podular design allows for more direct interaction between staff and inmates while maintaining security protocols. Educational opportunities, substance abuse programming, and religious services are available as part of the facility's comprehensive approach to detention management. Inmates often have access to library services, television viewing in common areas, and scheduled outdoor recreation time when weather and security conditions permit.

Visitation procedures are established to maintain family connections while ensuring facility security, though specific visiting hours and policies may vary based on housing assignments and individual circumstances. The facility's commitment to providing a safe and humane environment extends to healthcare services, which typically include medical and mental health support as needed. Communication with family members may be available through monitored telephone calls and correspondence, subject to standard correctional facility guidelines. The facility's focus on balancing public safety with inmate welfare reflects its accredited status and adherence to professional correctional standards.