WREX.com – Rockford’s News LeaderNew technology in Wisconsin empowers victims of violent crimes

New technology in Wisconsin empowers victims of violent crimes

By Jeannie Hayes

ROCK COUNTY (WREX) - The Rock County Sheriff's Department unveils a new system to keep crime victims safe.  It's a big step forward for victims, especially of violent crimes.  The idea is to empower them to take charge of their own safety.

"From a law enforcement standpoint, it's very exciting. It gives us another tool to keep people safe," said Sheriff Robert Spoden.

The VINE system lets victims sign up for email and phone alerts whenever their offender swtiches locations, or if the person is released.  The system is also open to the general public.

"It will have a huge impact on victims and witnesses, sexual assault victims, domestic violence victims, because that way they'll know right away when the offender's being released," said Rock County Victim/Witness Coordinator Shelley Sturdevant.  "And that way, they can make arrangements or plans of maybe going out of state, or maybe a family, a relative, a shelter. They'll have that information ahead of time."

A federal grant worth about $1.5 million will let every county in Wisconsin get the system.  Rock County is one of the first.

"It's a win-win for everyone.  I know the sheriffs that serve in the state.  They are as dedicated as I am to keeping people safe, and this is a great tool to do that," explained Sheriff Spoden.

Rock County's share of that grant money is about $30,000, enough to cover the first year or two.  Once that runs out, it hopes to try for more federal money, or look for other funding options.  Spoden says he'll do whatever it takes to keep the program going.  "At the end of the day, you can't put a price tag on the safety of our community."

The service is free.  To sign up, call 1 (888) 944-8463.  You can also click here to register online.