I, also, am concerned about this. It's tough enough for ppl without mental health issues to do this safely... and I know because I used to correspond with some through the Christian Prison Fellowship prior to my injury.

I will try to respond without giving in to my hypervigilance caused by the PTSD, recalling what was I can of importance from before.

The incarcerated community is well connected - to each other. While you might not be (and it sounds like you are not positive?) writing with anyone in your country, the names and addresses DO get passed around.

There are few that admit they are guilty. Of those who do admit it, there are those who are proud (inside) of what they did.

The innmates who have no conscious are very good at CON-ing...with no remorse. In other words, if you are taken in, you won't know it until it's too late.

Please contact an organization that works with inmates in this area, at least for ongoing advice and safety precautions.

Yes, be up front with whether you will be continuing to write for the long haul, or if you will only be writing once every 6 weeks or so, so they are not disappointed in "life" once again and learn a little patience. (And are rewarded for it.)

Try not to get too personal with them. Let it be all about THEM and their life, past, changes and societal norms.

good wishes.