Department of Justice Victim Notification System (VNS) brochure

mere — Introduction The Department of Justice and the United States Postal Inspection Service are committed to ensuring that victims of federal crime are treated fairly as their case moves through the criminal justice system. In order to provide victims with information on case events, the Department of Justice has developed the Victim Notification System (VNS). This brochure provides information about VNS. Victim Notification System (VNS) VNS is a cooperative effort between the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBD, the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), the United States Attorneys’ Offices, and the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP). This free, computer-based system provides important information to victims. In many cases you will receive letters generated through VNS containing information about the events pertaining to your case and/or any defendants in the case. This information is also available in English and Spanish on the Internet and through a toll-free telephone number (Call Center). In cases with many victims, you may receive only one letter and then be directed to the Internet or Call Center for further information. VNS Information Registration: You will receive a Victim Identification Number (VIN) and a Personal Identification Number (PIN) that will allow you to access VNS on the Internet and using your telephone. You may write those numbers on the attached tear-off card to keep with you. If you have chosen to participate in VNS, but have not received these numbers, please contact either the FBI, the USPIS, or U.S. Attorney’s Office handling your case. nse ~=- Your VIN and PIN numbers are both required any time you contact the Call Center or when accessing VNS on the Internet. VNS Internet Access: © You may access information about the case via the Internet at: http://www.Notify. USDOJ.Gov ‘You will be required to enter your VIN and your PIN. ® The Web site, in some instances, may provide additional information that is not available through the Call Center. (Refer to Common Questions, numbers 4, 5 & 6 below, for more information regarding the Internet.) The VNS Call Center: You may call 1-866-DOJ-4YOU (1-866-365- 4968) for current information. You will be required to enter your VIN and your PIN. By following the prompts, VNS will provide custody information and notice of upcoming court events. The Call Center will include options to hear: Q Upcoming Events - information on future court hearings Historical Court Events - information on past court hearings Detailed Information on Each Defendant - information regarding criminal charges filed, the outcome of the charges, and the sentence imposed by the Court; if the defendant is in the custody of BOP, the custody location, projected date of release from custody and other release information. VNS Notification: ‘You may also receive information about case events by telephone, email, numeric pager, or fax. Please note that in some rare instances, VNS may contact you by phone which will require use of your PIN. Common Questions Below are some common questions about VNS. If at any time you have a question about VNS that is not answered here, please feel free to contact your local FBI, USPIS, or U.S. Attorney’s Office. 1. When can I call the VNS Call Center or access VNS on the Internet? (Eastern Time) Monday - Friday 6:00 a.m. - 3:00 a.m. Saturday 6:00 a.m. - 12:00 a.m. Sunday 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 a.m. 1-866-DOJ-4YOU - (1-866-365-4968) International Callers: (1)502-213-2767 http://www.Notify.USDOJ.Gov HOUSE_OVERSIGHT_021561