If you are looking to correspond with a prison pen pal there are a number of websites that will help you. These websites will give you databases that list prisoners by gender, location and where the inmates are from.

There are many reasons why people reach out to prison pen pals. Some do it because they are lonely and want to relate to other people who may be as lonely. Other people have a curiosity about what prison life is like, or what makes a person commit a crime. Still others feel that they can help make a difference in an inmates life by corresponding with them.

You should know that when you correspond with an inmate in any prison, the mailroom would open and read every letter. You cant mention certain things in your letter regarding violence, escape, drugs, etc. Also, you should never give an inmate to much information about yourself. Remember, they have friends on the outside, and if they know where you live may harm you or rob you. A good way to avoid this is to set up a P.O. box to send and receive your correspondence. Many prisoners are very talented scam artists and may try to get you to send them money. Its not a good idea to get into that kind of relationship with any inmate. If you feel the need to send them something, make it gifts like books, etc.

The relationships can last for years or they can die out after a few letters. Its hard to say until you actually begin corresponding. For more information about prison pen pals check writeaprisoner.com or thepamperedprisoner.com.