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​Notification

Registered victims will be notified if/when the offender:

    • becomes parole eligible
    • is considered for any release program
    • escapes – and is recaptured
    • transfers to a state mental health facility
    • dies
    • writes an apology letter
    • applies for clemency (pardon or commutation)

Notifications that you can opt to receive from OVA are different from the automated SAVIN notifications through VINE. The SAVIN system notifies victims if the offender is transferred between correctional institutions, but does not contact them when the offender is being considered for parole review or when a parole decision has been made. Victims/survivors can be registered to receive both types of notifications.

Victims/survivors have the right to provide input before a decision is rendered, and because parole/release decisions can affect safety, victims encouraged to register with OVA.

Notifications can be customized to suit the needs and preferences of victims/survivors. Options include mailing, email alerts, and phone calls. Some victims choose to receive only certain notifications, such as their right to provide input

It is critical that registered crime victims notify OVA of any address or contact information changes so that timely notifications can be shared.

To learn more, to register, or to tailor notifications to suit your needs, please contact OVA at 800.563.6399.

 

SORNA Notifications

The Sex Offender Registration Notification Act (SORNA,) 42 Pa. C.S.A. §§ 9799.10 et seq., provides victims with rights to notification of the convicted sexual offenders in their case. Through Megan's Law and the Adam Walsh Act, it also provides notification to the public of the presence of registered sexual offenders within their community.

OVA partners with the PA State Police to support SORNA notifications to victims/survivors through Megan's Law.

You can view the 2021 SORNA Symposium sessions on our youtube channel.

For questions about SORNA or to register for SORNA notifications, please call OVA at 800.563.6399 or email RA-OVASORNAinfo@pa.gov.