“I believe that a police department is only as strong and successful as the community it serves,” Flaherty said in the release. “That’s why our new Arlington PD app from tip411 will help greatly enhance our ability to engage our community to help fight crime. Other police departments are successfully using this program, such as the Lynn Police Department.”
The program is monitored solely by the police department involved. In Arlington’s case, texts go straight to its police detectives.
Bodie said in the release that the district will work to promote tip411 among students, staff, parents and guardians in the community.
“This will be another great tool we have to keep our students and community safe,” Bodie said. “We look forward to partnering with Arlington police to promote and educate students and their families about how to use the app.”
Arlington School Resource Officer Bryan White agreed: “Tip411 is a great idea that can help keep schools and the community safe. It can also be another way to help connect students with police who may have been hesitant in the past.”
Developed by tip411, the Arlington Police Department app is available for download for free via the Google Play Store, iTunes App Store, or by visiting the Arlington Police Department website at www.ArlingtonMA.gov/police.
Those without a smartphone will still be able to share information with police by sending an anonymous text tip via their cell phone to police by texting keyword ARLINGTONPD and their message/tip to 847411 (tip411). Anonymous web tips can also be submitted through the department’s website at www.ArlingtonMA.gov/police.
Tip411 should not be used if you or someone else is in imminent danger. Should that be the case, please call 911.
This announcement was published Monday, Feb. 24, 2020.
