The Waco Police Department announced Monday its newest crime prevention tool: a free smartphone app that enables users to easily access important phone numbers, send in tips and commend officers.

“Some people like (reporting) on iPhones or computers more than (taking) the time to put in a phone call,” Waco police spokesman Sgt. W. Patrick Swanton said.

Waco police say their new smartphone app is an easy way for residents to report tips.
Waco Police Department photo

Available through iTunes and the Android marketplace, the “My Police Department” application also includes forms for posing general questions to officers and allows users to send in a photo to supplement a report of problem — for instance, a graffiti complaint — with a GPS location.

It also has an option to submit tips on crimes and suspects, with detailed prompts for information.

Tip submission can remain anonymous if the user chooses, Swanton said.

“(The app) doesn’t collect information about their phone number or their GPS coordinates, unless they specify they want to send that,” he said.

Swanton said it is encouraged but not required for the user to leave his or her contact information.

Like any other online submission option, the app is not intended to be used in emergency situations but is being considered as another tool for residents to communicate with the department, police said.

Swanton said messages sent through the app will not be monitored continuously, so residents may not receive a response to a question for a day or so.

“My Police Department” includes similar programs for other police departments, evidence that more agencies are beginning to explore new uses for technology.

Robinson Police Department, for example, also is in the process of developing its own app, Police Chief Rusty Smith said.

“Apps are the way to go,” he said. “People are wanting quick access to information on their smartphones, and because of that demand, we’re moving in that direction.”

kcrow@wacotrib.com

757-5748