Texas – The Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) Victim Services Division (VSD) has announced an important update regarding the timing of notifications for victims and their families. Starting immediately, non-emergency after-hour notifications will be delayed until the following morning. This change aims to provide a more considerate approach to communication, ensuring that victims receive information during regular business hours.
Under the updated policy, emergency notifications, including actions related to warrants, inmate escapes, and recaptures, will still be sent in real-time. However, all other non-emergency notifications will now be sent only between the hours of 7 a.m. and 8 p.m. This adjustment underscores the division’s commitment to improving the support provided to victims.
In addition to the updated notification schedule, the VSD has introduced a new feature called Blackout Dates. Recognizing that certain dates, such as birthdays and anniversaries, can be especially challenging for victims, the agency now allows individuals to register these sensitive dates. By doing so, non-emergency notifications will be delayed until the following day, offering victims a break during particularly difficult times. Emergency notifications will still be sent in real time on these designated dates.
“We understand that receiving notifications, especially during vulnerable times, can be deeply distressing,” said Angie McCown, director of the VSD. “By adjusting our notification schedule and introducing Blackout Dates, we aim to provide a more considerate and supportive approach, ensuring victims receive crucial information in a manner that respects their needs and well-being.”
Victims can easily add Blackout Dates through the Integrated Victim Services System (IVSS) portal. To apply a Blackout Date to all registrations, users can select Blackout Dates under their name on the blue ribbon. Alternatively, those who prefer to apply Blackout Dates to a specific offender can edit their registration on My Dashboard. For assistance, individuals can contact the hotline at (800) 848-4284 or email victim.svc@tdcj.texas.gov.
This new approach is designed to support victims and their families with greater sensitivity and care during difficult times.
