Key improvements to the crime victim notification system will allow people in St. Lawrence County and around the state to more easily know the status of offenders, according to Sheriff Kevin M. Wells.

The launch of an enhancement to the New York Sheriffs’ Victim Hotline (VINE) will enable crime victims to receive a text message notification in the event of any change in the custody status of an offender incarcerated in a county correctional facility in New York State including New York City.

VINE allows crime victims to learn the custody status of an offender, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, by telephone or online.

The new option, SMS text messaging notification, in English and Spanish, adds text messaging to the existing notification options.

“Crime victims need and want timely and accurate offender information to proactively ensure their personal safety and that of their families,” Wells said. “I applaud the addition of texting and predict crime victims will embrace this new technology.”

In 2014, almost 2.8 million crime victims have searched the VINE Database, using either the toll free number (1-888-VINE-4-NY), the VINEMobile app, the Sheriffs Mobile Patrol App (both available for IPhone and Android), or the website (VineLink.com).

Also in 2014, over 100,000 crime victims have received notification of a change in their offender’s status either by phone or email. It is anticipated that the addition of the text messaging option will result in even more crime victims receiving timely notification of vital offender information.

More info: 379-2477.