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Panel approves bill to require DOC to give advance notice to local officials and victims of serious offender releases
Summary
The committee passed House Bill 12 50 to require at least seven days' electronic notice from the Department of Correction to local law enforcement and prosecutors about releases of serious violent offenders and to ensure victims who sign up for automated notification (SAVIN) are copied. The measure was prompted by the Susan Haney homicide and advanced 8–0.
Representative O'Brien presented House Bill 12 50 as a victim-centered measure that would require the Department of Correction to provide at least seven days' electronic notice to local sheriffs, prosecutors and police chiefs when a serious violent offender is released or discharged, both in the community where the crime occurred and in the community where the offender will be released. The amended bill also requires that recipients forward notices to anyone who has signed up for automated victim notification (SAVIN) in the relevant jurisdiction.
Mayor Lloyd Weneke of Evansville and local prosecutors described the Susan Haney murder as the impetus for the bill, saying the community was unaware of an offender’s release and that earlier notice could have enabled pre-release monitoring or arrest. Prosecutors and police officials argued the added notice would improve coordination and help protect communities and victims.
The chair offered and the committee accepted an amendment by consent to add SAVIN signups to the notification list. After discussion, the committee moved the bill as amended and recorded a roll-call vote; the bill passed out of committee by vote recorded as 8–0 and will proceed to further legislative consideration.
