Fighting crime through text messaging
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BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — Ana Juarez uses her cell phone to send text messages to just about everyone she knows. In fact, the 20-something Juarez says she uses her cell phone to do more texting than speaking on the phone.
Realizing text messages are a way of life, the Kern County Sheriff's Office launched a new crime fighting method called TIP411. The program is an anonymous texting system that allows the public to provide confidential tips and information in nonemergency cases.
"We want the younger generation to not be afraid to contact the police and help us when we need help with things," Glenn Blake-Lobb, dispatch supervisor with the Kern County Sheriff's Office, said.
To use the TIP411 system, the caller should begin by sending the message to TIP411 (847411). The message should start with "kcso," which ensures the information is sent to the Kern County Sheriff's Office.
The Bakersfield Police Department instituted a similar program in November. Police say they have received valuable information that initiated investigations. To use the BPD system, enter 274637, which spells CRIMES, in the "to" line of a text message. In the text box, enter "BPDCRIMES," followed by the crime tip.
The text-messaging system is not to be used for emergencies or incidents that require immediate attention.
Realizing text messages are a way of life, the Kern County Sheriff's Office launched a new crime fighting method called TIP411. The program is an anonymous texting system that allows the public to provide confidential tips and information in nonemergency cases.
"We want the younger generation to not be afraid to contact the police and help us when we need help with things," Glenn Blake-Lobb, dispatch supervisor with the Kern County Sheriff's Office, said.
To use the TIP411 system, the caller should begin by sending the message to TIP411 (847411). The message should start with "kcso," which ensures the information is sent to the Kern County Sheriff's Office.
The Bakersfield Police Department instituted a similar program in November. Police say they have received valuable information that initiated investigations. To use the BPD system, enter 274637, which spells CRIMES, in the "to" line of a text message. In the text box, enter "BPDCRIMES," followed by the crime tip.
The text-messaging system is not to be used for emergencies or incidents that require immediate attention.
