If you have friends or relatives who are currently incarcerated in Louisiana, staying in touch may be difficult. However, with this comprehensive guide to sending, mailing, and calling inmates in the state, you can stay in touch with them even while they’re behind bars. This guide will cover all the important rules and regulations you need to know when communicating with inmates in Louisiana, advice on how to keep them happy, and tips for finding inmates in a Louisiana prison.
Corresponding with Louisiana Inmates: A Guide to Sending Mail
One of the most important ways to stay in touch with inmates in Louisiana is by sending them mail. However, before sending any correspondence, it is important to understand the rules and regulations governing inmate mail in the state.
Rules and Regulations for Sending Mail to Prisoners in Louisiana
Inmates in Louisiana are allowed to send and receive letters, postcards and greeting cards, but they are not allowed to receive any packages or photos in the mail. All incoming and outgoing mail is subject to inspection by facility staff, and any correspondence deemed inappropriate or in violation of facility rules may be rejected.
Some prohibited items include:
- weapons or contraband
- obscene material
- drugs or alcohol
- threats or harassment
To ensure your mail is not rejected, all prison rules and regulations regarding inmate mail must be followed.
It is also important to note that Louisiana prisoners are not allowed to receive any cash or checks in the mail. If you wish to send money to an inmate, you must do so through a designated service provider approved by the facility. Also, it is advisable to avoid discussing any sensitive or confidential information in your correspondence, as it may be read by facility staff. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your communications with Louisiana inmates are safe, appropriate and comply with all regulations.
Keeping Inmates Happy: Sending Books and Magazines to Louisiana Prisons
Reading material can be a great source of entertainment for prisoners, and mailing books and magazines can be a great way to support their personal growth during incarceration. However, as with the mail, there are specific rules and regulations for sending books and magazines to Louisiana prisoners.
Recommended Reading for Louisiana Prisoners
The Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections recommends the following types of reading and materials for inmates:
- religious or spiritual material
- self-help or educational materials
- Puzzle and Game Books
- cookbooks or food-related books
- Magazines on approved topics such as sports or nature
It is important to note that all reading material must be mailed directly from the publisher or an approved supplier. Any books or magazines that do not comply with the facility’s rules and regulations will be rejected and returned to the sender.
In addition to providing entertainment and personal growth, reading material can have a positive impact on an inmate’s mental health. Research shows that reading can reduce stress, improve cognitive function, and increase empathy and understanding of others.
In addition, sending books and magazines to prisoners can also help them keep in touch with the outside world. It can provide a sense of normalcy and remind them that they have not been forgotten by society.
Supporting Prisoners: How to Send Money to a Louisiana Prison
Another way to support loved ones while incarcerated is to send them money. This can help them purchase essentials such as food and personal hygiene items from the facility’s commissary.
Learn about the process of sending money to prisoners in Louisiana
To send money to Louisiana prisoners, you must use a secure website or phone service. You will need to know the inmate’s booking number, full name and facility location to complete the transaction.
There are several approved vendors for sending money to Louisiana prisons, the options are as follows:
- Alipay
- Western Union
- MoneyGram
It is important to note that there will be a fee associated with sending money to the prisoner and it may take several days for the money to reach the prisoner’s account.
When sending money to prisoners, it is important to remember that there is a limit to the amount they can receive. In Louisiana, the maximum amount a prisoner can receive in a single transaction is $300. Additionally, there may be limits to how much money prisoners can have in their accounts at any given time.
It’s also important to be aware of any restrictions on what items you can buy with that money. In some cases, certain items may be prohibited or limited in quantity. It is best to check with the facility or supplier before sending money to ensure the prisoner can use it for the intended purpose.
Staying Connected: Louisiana Inmate Phone Policy
Phone calls can be an important way to keep in touch with inmates in Louisiana, but as with any other form of communication with inmates, you must follow specific policies and regulations.
How to Call an Inmate in Louisiana
To receive calls from Louisiana inmates, you must create an account with an agency-approved phone service provider, such as Securus Technologies. You can also add money to an inmate’s phone account so they can call approved numbers.
It is important to note that all calls may be monitored and recorded, and any violation of facility rules may result in disciplinary action against the inmate.
Also, it is important to remember that inmates who violate facility rules or behave inappropriately during a call may have their call privileges limited or revoked. In some cases, phone calls may also be limited to a specific number of minutes per day or week, depending on facility policy.
Finding a Facility: A Guide to Louisiana Prisons
Types of Prisons in Louisiana and Their Locations
There are several types of prisons in Louisiana, including state prisons, federal prisons, and private prisons. Louisiana’s state prisons are operated by the Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections, while federal prisons are overseen by the Federal Bureau of Prisons.
Private prisons in Louisiana are owned and operated by private companies but remain subject to state and federal regulations. However, it must be noted that private prisons may have different communication policies for prisoners and may have different rules and regulations for visitation, mail and telephone calls.
How to Find an Inmate in a Louisiana Prison
If you are not sure where your loved one is in the Louisiana prison system, there are several ways to find them. You can use the inmate search tool on the Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections website, or call the department’s Offender Locator Line.
It may also be helpful to speak with the inmate’s defense attorney or contact the facility directly for more information on the inmate’s location and status.
In summary, keeping in touch with Louisiana inmates can be challenging, but by knowing the rules and regulations for mail, books, money, and phone calls, you can maintain strong relationships with your incarcerated loved ones. Plus, knowing the types of prisons in Louisiana and how to find inmates can help you navigate this complex system and connect with those you care about.
It is important to note that each prison in Louisiana may have different rules and regulations regarding visitation, mail, and telephone calls. It is imperative to research the specific facility where your loved one is located to ensure you are following all necessary guidelines. Additionally, some facilities may offer programs and services to help inmates stay connected to their families, such as video visitation or family counseling. It is worth exploring these options to maintain a strong relationship with your loved one while they are incarcerated.