VINE is an automated service in many states that notifies registered people about an offender's custody status, such as release or transfer.
Usually yes; registration can be done online through VINELink, by phone or with help from a victim advocate.
No. It covers custody status; investigation updates must be arranged directly with the investigating agency.
By registering with the prosecutor's office, and separately with parole boards for hearings involving offenders serving sentences.
Outdated phone numbers or emails mean families can miss releases, hearings and other critical notifications.