DOTHAN, Ala. — In a major development for victims of domestic abuse and violent crimes, the Houston County Commission announced plans on Wednesday to introduce a state-wide victim notification system. This system, aimed at enhancing safety and providing victims with essential information, will allow all 67 counties in Alabama to opt into the program.
The new service, powered by the nonprofit organization VINE (Victim Information and Notification Everyday), will alert victims about key developments in the legal process involving their perpetrators. These alerts will notify victims when a perpetrator is released on bond, makes bail, or is granted parole, ensuring they are informed about any potential threat to their safety.
Houston County Commission Chairman Brandon Shoupe expressed confidence in the system’s ability to improve safety for crime victims. “If they get released on bond, make bail, or get released on parole, it will notify the victim that the person is out,” Shoupe explained.
The VINE program, which started in 1994, was originally founded in Kentucky following the tragic murder of Mary Baron, a woman who was killed by her boyfriend after she was not notified of his release from jail. Since then, VINE has worked to prevent such tragedies by keeping victims informed about the status of their offenders.
Shelly Linderman, Executive Director of Angel House, a local organization that supports victims of domestic violence, praised the new system. She emphasized how vital it is for victims to feel empowered by having knowledge of their perpetrator’s whereabouts. “It gives them the knowledge to know whether they need to leave, whether they can remain safe,” Linderman said. “They don’t feel so scared all the time, not knowing.”
Linderman, who has witnessed the impact of domestic violence firsthand, noted that many victims were unaware of their abuser’s release in the past, leading to dangerous situations. She also pointed out the importance of the new system in preventing future violence. “We have over 400 pictures hanging on our wall, and about 70% of those are domestic violence victims that have been murdered by their partner. If that victim knows where the offender is, they can protect themselves and get help,” she added.
The VINE system is set to be available to residents across the state once the Commission finalizes the contract with the service provider. Victims who wish to register for alerts can visit the VINE website and sign up for notifications.
Chairman Shoupe confirmed that the system will be accessible to all counties throughout the state once the bid is awarded to contractors next Monday. This new service offers a critical tool for crime victims, ensuring they remain informed and better prepared to protect themselves in the face of potential danger.
As the system rolls out, Alabama residents can look forward to greater peace of mind, knowing that they will be kept in the loop regarding the legal status of their offenders, and that the state is taking meaningful steps to enhance public safety and support victims of violent crimes.
