Missouri
Missouri
Criminal Justice Services (CJS), a private service provider operating across multiple Missouri counties, partners with SCRAM Systems to address one of the most persistent challenges in domestic violence and stalking cases: the ongoing fear victims experience after an offender's release. By integrating SCRAM Ally® into their electronic monitoring programs, CJS provides victims with instant notification when a GPS-monitored offender enters proximity of their protected zone.
CJS works closely with county prosecutor's offices and victim advocates to ensure victims have access to the Ally app when protective orders are in place with GPS tracking. The court's directive for victim notification is typically applied on the defendant's bond sheet or as a probation condition, and CJS customizes monitoring to meet these specific requirements. This collaborative approach creates a comprehensive safety net that extends beyond simple technology deployment.
The implementation of SCRAM Ally has transformed how CJS supports victims. Beyond providing technology, the app serves as a vital communication bridge that helps victims reclaim a sense of control over their safety and daily lives.
“Victims deserve the right to not just be safe, but to feel safe.”
“SCRAM Ally has changed my life! Our story is very complex: from domestic assault and witness and evidence tampering, to harassment and stalking. I looked over my shoulder everywhere I went and was always concerned with who was driving past my house. I was constantly worried not only for my life and safety, but for my two daughters as well. I'm thankful for Ally, backed by someone I trust to look after the alerts. I can at least take a breath when I'm grocery shopping or out with my girls, so that if danger is close, we have an alert. Thank you for providing this program to us!”
A persistent issue in domestic violence and stalking cases is the ongoing state of fear that victims experience once an offender is released from custody. As a CJS representative points out, an offender could be living across the country, but the victim may still feel unsafe.
Without a direct line of communication or a way to stay informed, victims are often left out of the loop and feel vulnerable. Traditional monitoring approaches focus on the offender while leaving victims disconnected from critical safety information.
CJS provides electronic monitoring for a range of high-risk cases, including drug trafficking, domestic and child abuse, sexual crimes, and individuals on house arrest. Each case requires customized monitoring approaches to meet court requirements and protect public safety.
Too many notifications can cause unnecessary stress for victims. Finding the right balance between keeping victims informed and preventing alert fatigue requires careful, case-by-case configuration.
Give victims a sense of control by ensuring they receive timely notification if an offender approaches a restricted zone, allowing them to live their lives without constant anxiety.
Create a direct line of communication with victims that allows CJS staff to explain technology, address questions, and connect victims with additional services such as mental health support.
Protect victims from physical or mental harm while also protecting offenders from false allegations through documented, GPS-verified location data.
CJS addressed these challenges by integrating SCRAM Ally®, a GPS-based victim notification mobile app, into their monitoring programs. The solution provides instant notification to both the victim and supervising authority when a GPS wearer enters proximity of protected zones.
CJS creates customized "victim zones" and "buffer zones" tailored to each court order. For example, if a court order specifies a 1,000-foot range of protection, CJS sets the victim's buffer zone at 1,000 feet with alerts sent to both CJS staff and the victim. An additional buffer zone alerts CJS staff, allowing for proactive intervention before a violation occurs.
CJS utilizes both in-house staff and SCRAM Systems monitoring services for high-risk cases. This ensures that a minimum of three CJS staff members receive critical notifications, with backup from SCRAM Systems' professional monitoring team. Additionally, CJS partners with bond agents who receive text notifications to further strengthen the alert network.
CJS understands that too many alerts can cause unnecessary stress for victims. They tailor notifications on a case-by-case basis, ensuring victims receive only critical alerts. This balance helps provide peace of mind without creating additional anxiety.
CJS has seen payment for the Ally app come from the victim, the offender, or the court. However, a key part of the provider's philosophy is that victims should not be burdened financially, so they avoid charging victims unless specifically directed by the court.
The ability to be notified if an offender approaches a restricted zone gives victims a sense of security and control. It has proven to be a crucial tool for helping them live their lives without the constant anxiety of a potential encounter.
In cases where Ally is utilized, CJS establishes a direct line of communication with the victim. This allows CJS staff to explain the technology, address questions, and help connect victims with other services, such as mental health support.
The technology has been effective in protecting not only victims from physical or mental harm but also in protecting offenders from false allegations through verified location documentation.
According to Adam Wells, Owner of Criminal Justice Services, victim notification technology like SCRAM Ally is "not negotiable" in domestic violence cases. While the technology is an essential piece of the puzzle, CJS's success lies in its commitment to the human element. The agency's proactive communication and availability to victims are what truly provide comfort and reassurance. As the CJS representative put it, "we are the rest" of the solution.
SCRAM Ally works as an extension of your team to provide victims with real-time notification and peace of mind. We collaborate with agencies to tailor victim notification services to meet their unique needs and court requirements.
Note: The source content did not include specific quantitative data-driven outcomes (such as percentage reductions, cost savings, or total individuals monitored). The outcomes listed at the top reflect qualitative program highlights from the available case study information.