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 Yuma County Detention Center.

Sending Photos and Postcards

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

Frequently asked questions about Yuma 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 Yuma County Detention Center.

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

   Mailing address:

   Yuma County Detention Center
   200 W Court St
   Yuma, AZ 85364
   Phone: (928) 782-9871

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

   Visiting hours at Yuma 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 (928) 782-9871 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 Yuma 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 Yuma County Detention Center for their specific mail policies.

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

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

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Yuma 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 Yuma 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 Yuma 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 Yuma 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 Yuma County Sheriff’s Office recognizes the critical importance of maintaining family connections and communication during incarceration, providing multiple convenient options for depositing funds into inmate accounts. Through partnerships with Combined Public Communications (CPC), the facility offers comprehensive communication services including telephone access, tablet services, and Chirper texting devices that allow inmates to stay connected with their support networks. These communication tools may also provide access to email services through tablets, helping inmates maintain relationships that are essential for successful reintegration.

Beyond communication services, the facility typically maintains commissary accounts that allow inmates to purchase personal items and necessities. These financial management systems often support additional programming that may include educational opportunities, vocational training, and life skills development. Arizona correctional facilities commonly offer substance abuse counseling, anger management programs, and basic literacy courses to help inmates address underlying issues and develop skills for their eventual release.

The detention center’s approach to inmate services often extends to include religious services, recreational activities, and access to legal resources. Mental health support services may be available to address the psychological needs of inmates, while work programs could provide opportunities for inmates to develop job skills and maintain productive routines. These comprehensive services work together to create an environment that supports both the immediate needs of inmates and their long-term rehabilitation goals.

Daily Life & Visitation

The Yuma County Adult Detention Center provides inmates with multiple communication options to maintain connections with family and friends during their incarceration. Through Combined Public Communications (CPC), inmates can access telephone services, tablet-based email communication, and Chirper texting devices. Family members can fund these accounts through the inmatesales.com website or by calling the toll-free number, with options for direct pay (limiting calls to one number) or PIN debit accounts that allow calls to any approved number.

Inmates typically begin their day with scheduled counts and meal service, followed by various programs and activities depending on their housing assignment and security level. The facility may offer educational programs, work assignments, and recreational activities during designated hours. Commissary services allow inmates to purchase personal items and snacks using funds deposited by family members, though these commissary funds cannot be used for tablet-related services. The facility often maintains structured schedules for meals, programming, and recreation time to ensure orderly operations.

Communication remains a vital part of daily life, with inmates able to send and receive emails through tablets, though attachments are not viewable for security reasons. The facility emphasizes the importance of family connections while maintaining security protocols. Visitation schedules and procedures are typically established to balance family contact with operational needs, and inmates may participate in various programs designed to support rehabilitation and preparation for reentry into the community.