Crime victims in Schuyler County will be able to receive automated updates from their initial 911 call through later stages of a criminal case under an enhanced notification system scheduled to launch Monday, Oct. 12.
The Schuyler County Sheriff’s Office said the system combines VINE and Versaterm CommunityConnect to provide updates during investigations and, when applicable, on court proceedings, protective orders, incarceration, parole and release.
The goal is to close the communication gap between the reporting of a crime and notifications available after an arrest, giving victims more consistent information throughout the criminal justice process.
When a crime victim calls 911, their phone number is entered into the county’s computer-aided dispatch system. That information will allow automated notifications during the investigation, supplementing regular communication from law enforcement, according to the sheriff’s office.
Victims must register with VINE to continue receiving custody-related updates if an offender is incarcerated, paroled or released. The initial entry of a phone number into the dispatch system does not replace that registration.
VINE allows victims and other concerned individuals to anonymously check an offender’s custody status and sign up for notifications by phone, online or through a mobile app.
Versaterm CommunityConnect provides updates beginning when an incident is reported. It also offers mobile-friendly surveys that the sheriff’s office said will help gather feedback and improve services.
The agency said more timely information can help victims plan for their safety and feel supported as a case moves forward. Automated notifications are also intended to reduce manual work for law enforcement, allowing personnel to spend more time assisting victims and their families.
The announcement did not include registration links or local contact information for questions about the new system.
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