VINE is an automated service that allows victims and others to track the custody status of incarcerated offenders. A victim of crime can register to receive automated notification by phone or Internet if their incarcerated offender is released from custody, escapes, is moved to another facility, or has any other change in custody status.

Additionally, a photo enhancement feature has been added in participating Virginia jails. This enhancement allows users to ensure that they have the right offender through the use of booking photographs. Often there may be multiple offenders with the same name and of a comparable age, a photograph may be the determining factor for the victim to be certain that he/she is tracking the status of the appropriate offender.

Victims have the right to know! VINE is a tool that victims can build into their personal safety plans, giving them a sense of control and security after being victimized. Victims and other concerned citizens can register at www.vinelink.com or by calling 1-800-467-4943 (TTY 1-866-847-1298).

The VINE system has also been integrated with the existing Virginia Sex Offender Registry. Virginians can now sign up to receive automated notification on a particular sex offender's change in address or compliance status. Register for notification at www.vinelink.com or by calling 1-800-467-4943.  Please note:  The Virginia Sex Offender Registry does not send notifications about the custody status of a sex offender in jail. To receive that information you must also register with the Virginia Vine Service as detailed above.

VCPI in partnership with the Virginia Sheriffs' Association (VSA) is coordinating the implementation and maintenance of the VINE system and photo enhancement in Virginia's local and regional jails. Originally funded by the Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA), this invaluable system has received continued support through the Commonwealth of Virginia Compensation Board. The Commonwealth of Virginia Compensation Board also funded VCPI to oversee the implementation of the Virginia Sex Offender Registry.

For additional questions regarding the Virginia Statewide VINE service or the Virginia Sex Offender Registry, please contact Pat Conwell at pconwell@vcpionline.org or by calling (804)644-0899

Click here for the Virginia VINE informational brochure.

Click here for the Virginia VINE informational brochure in Spanish.

Click here for the Virginia Sex Offender informational brochure.