Protecting Victims’ Rights: Victims Information Notification Everyday (VINE)

By Sheriff Greg Ahern (Alameda County), President of the California State Sheriff’s Association

As our communities become more entrenched with technology, many law enforcement partners are taking on a greater role to create safer communities. The California State Sheriffs’ Association (CSSA) is assisting victims of domestic violence and other serious violent crimes through the Victims Information Notification Everyday (VINE).

The VINE Program is a 24-hour service that provides instant notification to individuals concerning the whereabouts of the person(s) who victimized them. Administered by the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) in partnership with the CSSA, the VINE database tracks an offender’s information from the point of apprehension to re-entry into society, and it details transfers and relocations while he/she is incarcerated. This system allows victims to take the necessary steps and precautions for self-protection. Victims, witnesses, and next of kin can sign up to receive notifications, and all registrants’ information is confidential.

VINE has been partnered with the Alameda County community since 1996. During this time span, the system has delivered over 230,000 notification telephone calls to victims in the county. In addition, VINE was one of the first systems to utilize email technology, allowing registrants to receive notifications while away from home. To date, the Alameda County VINE Program has notified almost 4,000 individuals via email. VINE has also recently expanded its ability to contact users through social media efforts: a new iPhone and Android smart phone application informs victims of changes in the custody status of criminal offenders. This application is free to crime victims and is anonymous for users.

Although VINE caters primarily to victims of domestic violence, it also serves as an informational resource for both the public and private sectors. For example, VINE is used by employers to track the release date of disgruntled employees; journalists utilize the system to find the release date of high-profile offenders; judges refer to VINE to learn the release date of offenders who they have sentenced; and law enforcement consults this service to stay informed on the status of offenders in their own case files.

As the nation’s first automated system for victim notification, VINE seeks to preserve a victim’s right to personal safety following a crime. Just this year, there have been 961 new VINE registrants in Alameda County, and over 11,000 VINE notifications have been sent. The program’s success is even more impressive when reviewing statewide statistics. VINE is now live in 53 California counties, and there have been over one million offender searches performed throughout the state in 2013. The program has proven to be an effective tool that enables survivors to take pre-emptive action to avoid being victimized again. I urge law enforcement agencies that utilize the VINE Program to publicize their success, and others that are not members to join this valuable program.

For more information, see the California VINE website.

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Gregory Ahern has served as the Sheriff of Alameda County since 2007 and is the current President of the California State Sheriff’s Association. Employed by the Alameda County Sheriff’s Office for over 30 years, Sheriff Ahern has been actively involved in the development and implementation of a number of Alameda County programs, including the Youth and Family Services Bureau, Drug Education and Enforcement programs, Cold Case DNA Unit, and D.U.I. Enforcement Unit. He also initiated the Urban Shield tactical training exercise that provides a training venue to several thousand first responders each year. Sheriff Ahern earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics and Business Administration from Saint Mary’s College in Moraga.

September is National Campus Safety Awareness Month

By Abigail J. Boyer, Assistant Executive Director of Programs, Outreach, and Communications at the Clery Center for Security On Campus

This summer, it was hard to escape the omnipresence of Robin Thicke’s “Blurred Lines”, a pop tune with controversial lyrics and an even more controversial music video. While admittedly catchy, the suggestive song raises questions about what consent really means, in turn providing a valuable opportunity to have critical discussions about sexual violence and community responsibility to create a culture of respect.

The issue is of particular concern on college campuses, where one in five female students is a victim of an attempted or completed sexual assault—commonly by someone known to the survivor. With September as National Campus Safety Awareness Month (NCSAM), university campuses should be a major focus of sexual violence education and prevention.

The first six weeks of the fall semester are often referred to as the “red zone”, a time when colleges and universities typically see an increase in sexual assault and other crime. With this in mind, August and September should mark the start of a year-long conversation about campus safety and the role students can play in changing the culture in their community.

Bystander intervention emphasizes this community responsibility and empowers peers to step in when they see attitudes or behaviors that could lead to sexual assault. Intervention doesn’t always mean a physical confrontation; a distraction or even the simple question, “Are you okay?” can make all the difference. Being a good bystander can also mean challenging rape culture by questioning pervasive attitudes like those heard in “Blurred Lines”.

Students should know there are on- and off-campus resources available to survivors of sexual assault, as well as federal laws that guide institutions’ responses to sexual violence. Victims have rights under both Title IX and the Jeanne Clery Act. Recent amendments to the Clery Act included within the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2013 (known as the Campus Sexual Violence Elimination Act, or Campus SaVE) strengthened and expanded many of these rights to victims of sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking.

As part of our Safe Campus, Strong Voices campaign (a partnership with Promoting Awareness, Victim Empowerment, with guidance from a number of other incredible organizations), the Clery Center provides a toolkit for institutions to use as they implement programming during the month of September. This year’s “Day of Action” is centered around the PACT5 project in which five universities created student-produced documentaries about sexual assault.

We are excited and honored to be part of these important efforts to help students, parents, faculty, and professionals at institutions nationwide engage in meaningful dialogue about the impact of sexual violence and other crimes on campus communities.

Whether addressing the media’s hyper-sexualization of women or a classmate’s demeaning remark, it’s our hope that these conversations empower college communities to take a step back and consider, “What can we do to change a culture of sexual violence?”

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Abigail Boyer is the Assistant Executive Director of Programs, Outreach, and Communications for the Clery Center for Security On Campus. Working in the non-profit field since 2007 as an educator, trainer, and speaker, Abigail presents nationally on topics related to the Clery Act, dynamics of sexual and domestic violence, victims’ services, and non-profit outreach. Abigail earned a bachelor of arts degree in Political Science at West Chester University.

There’s a New Bully on the Block

By Julie Nauman, VCGCB Executive Officer

It has been one year since the since the death of 15 year-old Audrie Pott. The northern California sophomore committed suicide last September after she was sexually assaulted by male classmates while passed out at a party, and then subjected to public persecution when photographic evidence of the attack circulated via social media.

Photo credit: Pott family

The fate Audrie endured — a daughter driven to self-destruction by the dual distress of sexual assault followed by aggressive cyberbullying — is a parent’s worst nightmare. As mothers and fathers, we aim to raise children who are kind and respectful toward others, and we hope other parents try to do the same; but the unfortunate truth is, what happened to Audrie could have happened to any teenager. In light of back to school season, I want to shed light on what the FBI deems one of the newest and most significant issues that plague our youth today: cyberbullying.

With the growth of electronic technology and the infinite scope of the internet, peer harassment today often extends far beyond the academic setting. Abuse known as cyberbullying refers to the public persecution of someone via devices such as cell phones, computers, and tablets as well as communication tools including social media sites and text messages.

Although cyberbullies leave no physical signs of abuse, their psychological effects can be more extensive and long-lasting than bruises and broken bones. Hurtful messages and images can be posted anonymously and distributed quickly to a wide audience, and removing this content from the digital realm is extremely difficult. For bullied kids, the modern day structure of an always-connected society can breed, sustain, and amplify seemingly inescapable torment. Thus, it should come as no surprise that these victims suffer far-reaching physical, academic, and mental consequences. Cyberbullied children have a higher tendency to use alcohol and drugs, struggle in school, and battle health problems. They may also experience depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem that persist into adulthood.

Though its magnitude is evident, cyberbullying isn’t easily remedied because parents are often unaware of the problem. The 2008–2009 School Crime Supplement revealed that children only notified adults in one third of bullying cases. Negative messages surrounding snitching, gender stereotypes, fear of rejection, concerns of retaliation, and lack of confidence in adults’ actions contribute to this trend.

Tragedies like Audrie’s highlight the continued need for anti-bullying efforts on a societal level. I encourage parents to take a proactive role in piloting this cultural shift; by educating kids on the topic, maintaining open and supportive dialogues, and acting as role models, we can begin to not only change adult attitudes that too often dismiss bullying as “kids being kids” but also nurture positive youth advocates in our communities and empower children to take the lead in bullying prevention.

For resources on preventing and responding to bullying, visit www.stopbullying.gov.

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Julie Nauman is the Executive Officer for the Victim Compensation and Government Claims Board (VCGCB). VCGCB provides compensation for victims of violent crime and helps to resolve claims against the State.

State Victim Advocate Leader Reminds Public to Practice Safe Behaviors in Light of Rising Crime Rates

By Julie Nauman, VCGCB Executive Officer

Violent crimes in California increased 2.92% last year, according to the FBI’s newly released Preliminary Annual Uniform Crime Report, January-December, 2012. These surprising statistics indicate a reversal in the declining trend the state has seen in past years and compel me to remind everyone to stay alert and practice safe behaviors.

It was disturbing to learn that 60% of our communities are experiencing an increase in violence. Unfortunately, we cannot always prevent crime, but there are things each of us can do to minimize our risk of becoming a victim. I encourage everyone to practice these safe behaviors:

• Be diligent in locking your home and car doors
• Install surveillance and/or alarm systems
• Stay alert of your surroundings
• Take a self-defense course
• Use safe and secure practices while online
• Tell trusted family or friends where you are going and with whom
• Practice safe boundaries
• Get your neighbors involved through a neighborhood watch or neighborhood policing program
• Trust your gut-level feelings; if a situation feels bad, try to find safety immediately

To manage the continued demand for victim services, CalVCP regularly communicates with law enforcement and other first responders across the state to provide current program information and materials to ensure victims are readily informed of available assistance following an incident. We have increased our outreach efforts to underserved and vulnerable populations, including those in rural locations, or those with physical or cultural barriers. We also provide relevant program and victim resource information through this blog, Twitter, Facebook, Tumblr, and YouTube.

I would like to hear how you are practicing safe behaviors. Will you email me at publicaffairs@vcgcb.ca.gov or share your suggestions with us on social media? I look forward to your comments and suggestions; let’s practice safety together!

If you are a victim of a crime, we encourage you to find help. There are a number of resources available to assist victims of crime. Victims can reach out to their local victim witness assistance center to learn of available services, including CalVCP.

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Julie Nauman is the Executive Officer for the Victim Compensation and Government Claims Board (VCGCB). VCGCB provides compensation for victims of violent crime and helps to resolve claims against the State.

30th Annual National Night Out

2013 marks the 30th anniversary of National Night Out (NNO), a major campaign aimed at crime prevention through community building at the local levels. In conjunction with this observance, 2013 is also the first year NNO has been officially recognized by the State of California. On July 9th, the State Senate unanimously approved a resolution by Senator Norma Torres (D-Pomona) establishing August 6, 2013 as National Night Out in the Golden State.

From 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. on August 6th, residents in California and across the nation are invited to lock their doors, turn on outside lights, and step outside to enjoy the evening with neighbors while taking a united stand against crime. Cities and towns throughout the country will celebrate the occasion by hosting a variety of social events such as block parties, BBQ cookouts, ice cream socials, parades, and youth activities, all of which are attended by fellow residents and law enforcement.

The NNO campaign is designed to:

• Heighten crime and drug prevention awareness;
• Generate support for, and participation in, local anticrime programs;
• Strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships; and
• Send a message to criminals letting them know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back.

CalVCP knows the immense toll that crime takes on victims and their loved ones. Over 150,000 violent crimes are reported in California each year, and many more are believed to go unreported due to fear or embarrassment. In the 2011-2012 fiscal year alone, CalVCP received over 53,000 applications for victim assistance. Given these startling statistics, the widespread reach of NNO renders it an invaluable vehicle for constructive dialogue and positive change. As a leading advocate in the fight against crime, CalVCP recognizes that a safer nation starts at the individual and community levels. A city is only as strong as the citizens that reside within it, and NNO represents a key step in making neighborhoods a safer place year round.

NNO was founded in 1984 as an effort by the National Association of Town Watch (NATW) to promote civic engagement and involvement in crime prevention activities, police-community partnerships, and neighborhood camaraderie. That year, 2.5 million Americans took part across 400 communities in 23 states. By 2012, NNO participation had expanded to 15,704 communities to unite 37.5 million people from all 50 states, U.S. territories, Canadian cities, and military bases worldwide. NNO 2013 is expected to be the largest ever.

This August, let’s join forces with our neighbors nationwide to build community relationships and neighborhood unity and give crime the ultimate going away party.

Any municipality, law enforcement agency, crime prevention organization, community group, or neighborhood interested in participating in NNO 2013 is invited to register here.

Restitution Rights for Victims

By Julie Nauman, VCGCB Executive Officer

The question was recently posed about the fairness of asking defendants to pay restitution when they have so many other hurdles to overcome. I certainly understand these are trying financial times for everyone, for defendants and victims. While difficulties for offenders post-incarceration may be more visible to the public, let me remind you that we receive requests for assistance from victims that have lost jobs, homes, means of transportation, and physical aptitude, many of whom have suffered life-altering changes and significant mental trauma as a result of crime. Victims do not ask to be victimized and each has the absolute right to be made whole.

Many crime victims suffer life-altering losses.

The Victims’ Bill of Rights Act of 2008 codified the right to restitution along with other important victim rights. Restitution plays an important role in healing for victims. It is designed to provide financial restoration and to mitigate some of the negative impacts of crime. A victim of crime should not have to suffer calls from bill collectors or loss of independence because of someone else’s choices. Restitution can financially relieve the burdens placed on victims as a result of the crimes that occurred.

Restitution can be beneficial not only for victims, but also for offenders. For many offenders, restitution acts as a tool for their rehabilitation. Studies have shown that paying restitution can reduce recidivism. It gives offenders a way to take responsibility for their actions, make reparations to victims, and address feelings of guilt in a helpful way.

"We cannot forget about the support needed for victims who are impacted by unforeseen crimes, many of whose worlds are turned upside down."

There is no mistaking that crime costs us all. However, restitution fines help to shift the financial responsibility for crime back to the offenders. The money collected through fines paid by offenders helps to keep the Restitution Fund viable so victims’ needs may be met if there is no other form of payment available; for example, when the offender’s identity is unknown, or when a defendant is unable to pay for all of the expenses immediately.

It is important to uphold the rights of California’s victims. We cannot forget about the support needed for victims who are impacted by unforeseen crimes, many of whose worlds are turned upside down. I remain committed to our fight to ensure that victims receive the restitution owed to them and that offenders pay their debts.

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Julie Nauman is the Executive Officer for the Victim Compensation and Government Claims Board (VCGCB). VCGCB provides compensation for victims of violent crime and helps to resolve claims against the State.

Internet Safety for Kids

By Julie Nauman, VCGCB Executive Officer

Last week, I discussed that June is National Internet Safety Month and listed several tips on how to prevent yourself from becoming a victim of cybercrime. But, it occurs to me that the amount of time our young people spend online lends itself to a separate discussion all of its own.

When it comes to cybercrime, children of all ages can
access limitless content with only a few keystrokes.

The Internet provides us access to limitless information, which is used by billions of consumers daily. People of all ages use this tool to research, connect with others, shop, advertise, pay bills, watch movies and more. Nearly any convenience is a few keystrokes away, but there are risks involved.

When it comes to cybercrime, children are very vulnerable. A study by Pew Research Center, showed that 95 percent of teens access the Internet, making them the largest demographic of Internet users and a target for a multitude of online predators. Child abductions and sexual assault have occurred because predators were able to access personal information through chat rooms, social media sites or online gaming sites.

For example, 36-year-old Tony Mcleod, known as the “PlayStation Predator,” lured a 14-year-old California boy to Los Angeles Airport, where the two boarded a plane to Mcleod’s home in Tampa, Florida. Mcleod and the boy had been in contact for a month, when his parents discovered that the boy had been receiving explicit texts and photos from him. The boy’s parents immediately reported him missing when he did not return from school one day. Detectives discovered that McLeod and the boy were on a flight to Tampa. When they reached the Tampa airport, McLeod was confronted by FBI officials and the boy was returned to his California home.

The PlayStation Predator is just one of many online criminals waiting to lure children away from their homes. Here are some tips for keeping your children cyber safe:

• Keep your computer visible. By placing your computer in a high-traffic area of the house, you can keep an eye on the sites your child visits and ensure that they are safe and appropriate. 
• Set rules and a password. Monitoring your child’s Internet usage and limiting the sites they visit can help you keep track of your child’s online safety. Let him or her show you what they like to do online, so you’re aware. You can also set a password to limit your child’s Internet access to when you allow it.
• Know who they’re messaging. Being aware of who your child is messaging, whether it’s through social media, email, online gaming or webcam usage, can enable you to make sure your child isn’t communicating with strangers. 
• Use Internet security options. By using these options, you can limit what websites show up on your browser. This can prevent access to questionable and explicit sites. 
• Don’t forget cellphones. TextGuard, My Mobile Watchdog and iWonder Surf, are mobile applications that can help you keep track of your child’s incoming and outgoing calls, texts, and web browsing habits. 
• Talk to your child. Make your children aware of the dangers of online predators and help them understand that by monitoring their Internet usage, you are helping to keep them safe. Keep in mind that even teens need to be reminded of Internet precautions. Encourage them to share Internet safety advice with their friends.

To learn more about Internet safety for children, visit NetSmartz.org.

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Julie Nauman is the Executive Officer for the Victim Compensation and Government Claims Board (VCGCB). VCGCB provides compensation for victims of violent crime and helps to resolve claims against the State.