Pocono News Section

New Program Helps Victims Track Their Attackers

New Program Helps Victims Track Their Attackers - Thursday, March 6, 2008 at 5:36PM EST

Reported by: Jeremy Deebel
Thursday, Mar 6, 2008 @05:36pm EST
Bloomsburg, Columbia County-

Victims of violent crimes in Columbia County have a new tool to keep track of their attackers. It’s a 24-hour, automated alert system, nicknamed PA SAVIN, which tracks the custody status of violent offenders.

The official name is the Pennsylvania Statewide Automated Victim Information and Notification System. And while the title is a mouthful, the goal is simple - empowering local victims of violent crimes.

Prison Warden William Campbell said, "Columbia County is trying to make sure their citizens are aware of everything going on crime wise. It's definitely going to enhance, the people will know when these guys are being released from prison and they won't have to worry."

Here's how it works. Victims can register anonymously on-line or by phone. They will be assigned a pin number. If the person's attacker escapes, is transferred to another facility, or is released, they will receive instant notification through an immediate email or phone call. Warden Campbell explained, "They will get the message that inmate Jones was released from Columbia County Prison on such and such a date. If they don't answer, it will keep calling until they actually put the pin number in."

And registering for the PA SAVIN program is not limited strictly to victims. It can also help law enforcement officials and court personnel, among others. Columbia County Commissioner David Kovach said, "It could be other family members, friends, other employees the victim works with, depending on their situation."

Victim services representatives we spoke with, as well as members of the general public, say the PA SAVIN program could be a life-saving tool for those who use it. Brooke Bomboy of Bloomsburg said, "The family members and the victim could take precautionary steps to staying safe and keeping away from that person, just keeping their eyes open."

"It won't stop the crimes, but it will assist the victims, and that's what this program is all about," Commissioner Kovach added.

The addition of Columbia County marks the 12th county in Pennsylvania to join the automated alert system. State officials hope to have all counties with prison facilities included by the end of this year. If you feel you or someone you know should register for the PA SAVIN program, call 1-866-972-7284, or check out the links on pahomepage.com for more information.

There is no cost to use the PA SAVIN program.