The borough police department has launched an anonymous texting line for people to report crimes, authorities announced Wednesday.
People will now be able to text 847411 (tip411) and send anonymous tips about crime or suspicious activity, authorities said.
More than 1,200 communities in the United States use tip411, which allows police officers to receive real-time information, Ramsey police said.
“We believe the public is our greatest law enforcement resource,” Chief Brian Gurney said. “Tip411 allows a safe and secure way for community members to share important information with police without the fear of retribution.”
The service also “removes all identifying information before police see it and there is no way to identify the sender,” authorities said.
Gurney said that the service could also be used for people to report possible overdoses.
“Due to the opiate overdose epidemic, we are hoping that the Tip411 system will offer an alternative for people who may know of others that may need help with their opioid addiction,” he said. “We are also offering an alternative for young people, who do not want to formally contact police with regard to their friends that may be experiencing drug addiction and other issues.”
Gurney said anyone with questions can get more information by calling 201-327-2400.