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 Yolo County Detention Center.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Yolo County Detention Center 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 Yolo County Detention Center.

Frequently asked questions about Yolo County Detention Center

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 Yolo County Detention Center.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Yolo County Detention Center?

   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 Yolo County Detention Center?

   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 Yolo County Detention Center. 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 Yolo County Detention Center. 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 Yolo County Detention Center?

   Mailing address:

   Yolo County Detention Center
   140A Tony Diaz Dr
   Woodland, CA 95776
   Phone: (530) 668-5245

5. What are the visiting hours at Yolo County Detention Center?

   Visiting hours at Yolo County Detention Center 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 (530) 668-5245 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 Yolo County Detention Center?

   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 Yolo County Detention Center for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Yolo County Detention Center?

   You can send money to an inmate at Yolo County Detention Center 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 Yolo County Detention Center?

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

   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 Yolo County Detention Center 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 Yolo County Detention Center, 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 Monroe Detention facility serves as Yolo County's primary inmate holding facility, processing arrestees from all local law enforcement agencies through its upgraded booking area and specialized medical and mental health wing. As a medium to maximum security facility designed to house prisoners across virtually every security classification, the facility typically emphasizes comprehensive support services to address the diverse needs of its population.

Educational and vocational programs may include basic literacy instruction, GED preparation, and job readiness training to help residents develop essential skills for successful reintegration. The facility's enhanced medical and mental health wing likely supports specialized counseling services, substance abuse treatment programs, and mental health interventions tailored to individual needs. These services often work in conjunction with case management support to help residents address underlying issues that may have contributed to their incarceration.

Additional programs commonly available at facilities of this type may include religious services, library access, and recreational activities that promote positive social interaction and personal development. The upgraded infrastructure at Monroe Detention facility suggests a commitment to providing modern, effective programming spaces that can accommodate various therapeutic and educational activities. With the ongoing construction of a new facility to replace the demolished Leinberger Center, Yolo County appears to be investing in expanded capacity and enhanced programming capabilities to better serve the correctional population.

Daily Life & Visitation

Inmates at the Monroe Detention Center in Yolo County begin each day within a medium to maximum security environment designed to accommodate virtually every security classification. The facility serves as the primary booking and housing location for arrestees from all Yolo County law enforcement agencies, creating a structured environment where daily routines typically revolve around security protocols, meal times, and supervised activities.

The upgraded medical and mental health wing plays a central role in daily operations, as inmates may receive regular health assessments and mental health services as part of their routine care. Daily schedules often include designated times for meals in housing units, recreational periods when available, and access to programs that may be offered through the facility. The new booking area helps streamline the intake process for new arrivals, while existing inmates typically follow established schedules for count times, visits, and any work assignments or educational opportunities that may be available.

Family connections remain an important aspect of daily life through the facility's visitation program and communication policies. Inmates can typically maintain contact with loved ones through scheduled visits, phone calls during designated hours, and the inmate mail system, all of which operate under security guidelines. The commissary system allows inmates to purchase approved items to supplement their daily needs, while various programs may be available to help structure time and provide educational or rehabilitative opportunities during their stay at the facility.