Marion County residents can now report crime tips via text message.
The new text-to-tip program, tip411, allows Marion County Sheriff’s Office to help connect with the community.
The program lets users report crime tips and suspicious activities by sending an anonymous text message from their cellphone or through a free app called MCSO In The Know.
“We believe an informed community is a safer community,” said Lt. Chris Baldridge, Marion County Sheriff’s public information officer.
MCSO In The Know gives officers the ability respond back by creating an anonymous two-way conversation.
The technology utilized in the app removes identifying information from users before messages reach police.
In addition to the two-way text conversations, the sheriff’s office will inform registered app users of public safety alerts by sending emails, text messages and app alerts.
Anonymous crime tips can also be shared by sending by texting “TipMCSO” and their message to 847411, or tip411.