Reporting Crime With Your Smartphone

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If you live in the state of New York, reporting crimes and suspicious activity has just gotten a whole lot simpler. The New York State Police have launched a new app that aims to make concerned citizens the eyes and ears of law enforcement.

The app, launched as part of the “See Something, Send Something” campaign, will allow citizens to record and report suspicious activity with their smartphones. If, for example, a citizen notices an unattended package at a train station or busy street, they could use the app to instantly report it to law enforcement, including a picture and accurate location data.

“This app works just like a traditional telephone crime tip line or hotline, except it is available with the touch of a finger on a handheld device. If you see something that may be linked to terrorism, send something,” New York State Police Superintendent Joseph A. D’Amico said.  “Your tip could provide valuable information that could prevent a tragedy.”

In addition to facilitating the reporting of crime and suspicious activity, the app has information on what would-be investigators should be on the lookout for.

New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo has said that “these new efforts are essential pieces in our fight against terrorism,” and urged citizens to “remain vigilant.”

“The app does not replace 911 and should not to be used for someone needing immediate police action or to report an emergency” a spokesman for the State Police has said. “In order to keep the app focused on safety, users should report only suspicious behavior and situations (e.g., an unattended backpack or briefcase in a public place) rather than beliefs, thoughts, ideas, expressions, associations, or speech unrelated to terrorism or other criminal activity.”

The app is already available in Colorado, Louisiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Virginia.