Originally posted by DonMichaelCorleone:
I could be wrong but I don't think the government can prevent mail from being sent or received forever (I think they can do a week or two as a punishment) So packages and letters can always be used to send orders. The other thing is that since the bosses aren't going out collecting money it doesn't make a difference if he gives the "nod" in a letter sent in the mail or in person.
Prison authorities have the right to open all mail and other packages sent from the outside to inspect them for contraband. They can also censor both incoming and outgoing mail.
