Your Privacy

In 1980, Wisconsin became the first state to create a Crime Victims' Bill of Rights. In 1993, voters ratified a constitutional amendment creating constitutional recognition of victims' rights. The constitutional provision states: "The state shall treat crime victims, as defined by law, with fairness, dignity and respect for their privacy." The provision also provides reasonable protection from the accused throughout the criminal justice process.

To ensure victims' privacy and protection, personal information such as mailing address, phone number, and e-mail address remains confidential. Agencies that utilize such personal information, such as Department of Corrections Office of Victim Services and Programs, and County Victim/Witness offices, must not allow that information to be inspected or copied. Only authorized persons, such as Victim/Witness staff, District Attorneys, and Department of Corrections/Department of Health Services staff providing service to victims, have access to this information. Victim's personal information will not be released to the general public or to offenders.

Information that is provided on this Web site, and information that you submit including messages that you may send, are protected by security and encryption. You can verify the source of this Web site and its security by checking with the Entrust Certifying Authority.

The Department of Corrections and Department of Health Services are committed to providing victims with services while maintaining their privacy. We will try to resolve any concerns you may have. However, any victim who is unsatisfied with the treatment they receive from public officials, employees or agencies, may file a complaint with the Department of Justice.