Victim/Witness Notification FAQ

The Victim Witness Notification Program can assist victims and witnesses of sexual assault or violent crimes track the location of the person who victimized them. This program is confidential.

What is the Victim/Witness Notification Program?

You or someone close to you may have been the victim of a sexual assault or a violent crime. Information about the location of the person who committed this crime may be reassuring to you.

These people may be in a Washington state psychiatric hospital, a facility for juveniles or the Special Commitment Center for sexual predators.

The Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) has a program to notify victims or witnesses when the persons who committed these crimes are released, transferred, or escape from any DSHS facility.

Victim/Witness Notification is a confidential program. The person who victimized you will not know you are being notified and will not have access to your address or telephone number.

View a list of Eligible Offenses for Victim/Witness Notification.

How do I qualify for the Victim/Witness Notification Program?

To qualify for the Victim/Witness Notification Program, you must be a victim, next of kin, or the parent/guardian of a minor victim of a violent or sex offense.

You may also qualify if you have served as a crime witness in a court proceeding or any person specified in writing by the prosecuting attorney.

You are eligible to be a part of this program for as long as the person who committed the offense is under the supervision of DSHS. We will send you notices before a planned release or transfer. We will also attempt to call you as soon as possible following an escape. We will notify you of scheduled court hearings regarding release decisions, when appropriate.

How do I enroll in the Victim/Witness Notification Program?

To enroll in the Victim/Witness Notification Program complete the online enrollment form. This form is also available from your county prosecutor's fffice or by contacting us in one of the following ways:

  • Call toll free: 1-800-422-1536 or 360-902-7832
  • E-Mail: vwn@dshs.wa.gov
  • Send request to:
    Department of Social and Health Services
    Victim/Witness Notification Program
    PO Box 45100
    Olympia, WA 98504-5100
How long after I apply before I am enrolled in the Victim/Witness Notification Program?

You will be enrolled in the Victim/Witness Notification Program the same day we receive your enrollment form.

What can I do if I don't agree with the decision made by DSHS?

You should contact the Victim/Witness Notification Program at toll free: 1-800-422-1536 or 360-902-7832. You can send an Email to vwn@dshs.wa.gov. You can also write us at the following address:

  • Department of Social and Health Services
    Victim/Witness Notification Program
    P.O. Box 45130
    Olympia, WA. 98504-5130

If you are concerned about an adult offender in prison in the Department of Corrections, you may be eligible for a similar program in that agency. For more information, contact the Department of Corrections, Victim/Witness Notification Program at 1-800-322-2201.