DOMESTIC VIOLENCE UNIT

The Domestic Violence Unit is comprised of nine individuals—six deputies, two clerks, and one advocate. The Unit is dedicated to the enforcement of laws pertaining to family and domestic violence. Before 1999, these duties were shared with the Howard County Police Department, but in July 1999 the Sheriff’s Office took on sole responsibility for the enforcement of domestic violence orders in Howard County.

The Domestic Violence Advocate is a civilian employee dedicated to providing victims and potential victims of domestic violence with the assistance necessary to utilize all available resources to stop violence in and out of the home.

Victim Information & Notification Everyday (VINE)

VINE is an information service that can provide you with information on the custody status of offenders and upcoming court hearing dates, either by telephone (1-866-634-8463) or through vinelink.com. It is a fully automated system, available in English and Spanish 24 hours a day. Operator assistance in using the VINE system is also available by telephone 24 hours a day.

Additional information on the VINE system can be found at the following Governor's Office on Crime Control and Prevention sites:

VINE Frequently Asked Questions

Victim Information & Notification Access Chart