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 York County Detention Center.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about York 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 York County Detention Center.

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

   Mailing address:

   York County Detention Center
   1675 York Hwy
   York, SC 29745
   Phone: (803) 628-3083

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

   Visiting hours at York 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 (803) 628-3083 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 York 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 York County Detention Center for their specific mail policies.

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

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

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At York 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 York 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 York 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 York 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 visitation program at York County Jail operates through a structured request system designed to maintain meaningful connections between incarcerated individuals and their support networks. Inmates initiate the process by completing visitation request forms, allowing them to designate up to six approved family members or friends for weekly visits. Each approved visitor must be at least 17 years old and present valid government identification, with visits scheduled for specific one-hour time slots throughout the week to ensure orderly facility operations.

Beyond visitation services, York County Jail may offer various rehabilitative and support programs typical of South Carolina correctional facilities. Educational opportunities often include GED preparation classes and basic literacy programs to help residents develop essential academic skills. The facility may also provide substance abuse counseling, anger management courses, and life skills training to address underlying issues that contribute to criminal behavior. Mental health services are typically available through qualified counselors who work with inmates experiencing psychological challenges during their incarceration.

Vocational training programs may be offered to help prepare inmates for successful reentry into the community upon release. These could include basic computer skills, job readiness workshops, and certification programs in various trades. Religious services and chaplaincy programs often provide spiritual support and guidance, while library services may offer access to legal research materials and recreational reading. The facility’s approach to programming typically emphasizes personal responsibility and skill development, recognizing that successful rehabilitation requires addressing multiple aspects of an individual’s circumstances and needs.

Daily Life & Visitation

The visitation process at York County Jail requires inmates to take the initiative in maintaining family connections. Each inmate may fill out a visitation request form listing up to six approved friends or family members, though visitors must be at least 17 years of age. Once approved, inmates receive a designated one-hour time slot on a specific day each week - for example, Mondays from 9-10 a.m. - during which dedicated two of their six approved visitors may visit simultaneously. All visitors must present valid government-issued identification and appear on the inmate’s approved visitation list.

Beyond these structured visitation periods, inmates at York County Jail typically follow established daily routines common to South Carolina correctional facilities. Days often begin early with headcounts and meal service, followed by work assignments or educational programming for eligible inmates. The facility may offer various activities throughout the week, which could include recreational time, library access, and religious services. Inmates generally have opportunities to maintain communication with family through phone calls and correspondence, though these services typically operate under specific guidelines and scheduling requirements.

Living conditions at the facility are designed to balance security needs with basic accommodations. Inmates are typically housed in dormitory-style or cell arrangements, with access to common areas during designated times. The facility often provides essential services such as medical care, meals prepared on-site or delivered from approved vendors, and laundry facilities. While the structured environment maintains necessary security protocols, staff typically work to ensure that inmates can access basic necessities and maintain some connection with their support systems during their time at the facility.