Phone calls, electronic messages, and video visits in West Virginia facilities
Phone and messaging rules vary depending on whether your loved one is in a WV DOC facility or a federal (BOP) facility. In the federal system, phone privileges help people stay connected, but calls are monitored and third-party or alternative call arrangements are not permitted. Federal electronic messaging through TRULINCS requires approvals and consent from both sides. Messages are text-only with no attachments, capped at 13,000 characters (about two pages).
- Go to the scheduling site. Use schedule.telmate.com to start a video visit.
- Log in to your account. The login uses your phone number and PIN.
- Use your device. Video conversations can be done at the facility, or from your computer or mobile device.
- Get help if you hit a snag. GettingOut provides help by phone at (866) 516-0115.
Common Questions
Q
Can I do a video visit from my home with someone in a West Virginia facility?
Yes, WV DOC’s video conversations can be done from your computer or mobile device (not only at the facility). To start, WV DOC’s video-visit handout directs you to schedule.telmate.com to log in with your phone number and PIN, and GettingOut also provides a help line at (866) 516-0115.
Q
Are inmate phone calls monitored in West Virginia facilities?
In the federal (BOP) system, calls are monitored, and BOP states a notice is posted by each inmate telephone advising inmates that calls are monitored. BOP also notes that unmonitored calls to attorneys are permitted in certain circumstances. BOP further states that third-party or other alternative call arrangements are not permitted.
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