TDCJ News

Victim Services Division Updates Notification Options to Better Support Victims

March 14, 2025

The Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) Victim Services Division (VSD) announced an important update regarding the timing of notifications for victims and their families. Effective immediately, the division will delay non-emergency after-hour notifications until the following morning. This change aims to provide a more considerate approach to communication, ensuring that victims receive information during business hours.

Emergency notifications, including warrant actions, inmate escapes and recaptures, will continue to be sent in real time. All other notifications, however, will now be dispatched only between the hours of 7 a.m. and 8 p.m. This adjustment reflects the division’s commitment to enhancing the support provided to victims.

In addition to the new notification schedule, the VSD is introducing a feature called Blackout Dates. Recognizing that certain dates, such as birthdays and anniversaries, can be particularly challenging for victims, the agency allows individuals to register sensitive dates. By doing so, non-emergency notifications will be delayed until the following day, providing victims with a respite during these 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,” Angie McCown, director of the VSD, said. “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, if they prefer the Blackout Dates to apply only to a specific offender, they can edit their registration on My Dashboard. For assistance, individuals can contact the hotline at (800) 848-4284 or e-mail victim.svc@tdcj.texas.gov.

The IVSS portal also allows users to manage their personal information directly, with updates made in real time. Users can use the portal to search for limited offender information, access helpful resources, register for notifications, view past notifications and update their preferences for receiving information from the VSD. The portal is accessible on any device with internet capabilities, including desktop computers, mobile phones, and tablets.

Victims have the flexibility to choose how they receive information regarding offender status changes. Notifications are available via letter, e-mail, text message, and personal phone calls, ensuring that individuals can select the method that best suits their needs.