police city of Hopkins cruiser

U.S. Humane Society brings reward to $6,000 for tips on Hopkins dog poisonings

The reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for the possible poisonings of three dogs in Hopkins climbed to $6,000 with the addition of $5,000 from the Humane Society of the United States.

Hopkins Police announced last week a $1,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of those responsible for the death of Bruno, a golden retriever, and the liver damage to his housemate Fred. Both dogs are believed to have eaten food left under the porch of their home that had been soaked in antifreeze. Rat poisoning also was found in the yard, Hopkins Police Sgt. Michael Glassberg said.

A third dog in the same neighborhood also became ill and suffered similar permanent liver damage. No source of poison was found in that dog’s yard but the symptoms and condition were similar to the poisoned animals, Glassberg said. “People unfortunately need to be vigilant when their dogs are outside,” the sergeant added.

Bruno died in early October. Police don’t believe his death is related to the owner’s behavior. “We have no evidence or any information of him being targeted. He’s not involved in any feuds,” Glassberg said. He requested that owners who believe a pet has eaten poison, mention that to their veterinarians so police can follow-up.

The incidents thus far have occurred in the 200-300 blocks of 9th and 10th avenues N. in Hopkins. Police would like information about recent potential poisonings or connected activity. Unfortunately, they cannot investigate older dog poisonings. To report a possible tip, use the Tip 411 app to send an anonymous text, photo or video. Tipsters can also call 952-938-8885 and ask for Investigator Denny during regular business hours.

Read the story from the Star Tribune.

The Victoria Police Department Launches tip411 Alerts

The Victoria Police Department is launching tip411 public safety alerts from Citizen Observer which is a new way to keep the community connected and informed through email, text message, and online public safety alerts.

“We believe an informed community is a safer community,” said Chief Jeff Craig.  The new tip411 system will allow our department to communicate directly with members of the public who are interested in receiving information about crime and public safety issues in the City of Victoria.

Read more from CrossroadsToday.com

See something unlawful or troubling? Text TIP411

Have you heard about TIP 411 available in Northfield and Rice County? The Rice County Sheriff’s Office, the Rice County Chemical Health Coalition, the Mayor’s Task Force on Youth Alcohol and Drug Use and the Northfield Police, are getting the word out about the TIP411 program through posters, flyers, postcards, and a public service announcement.

TIP 411 is a way for people to report concerning behavior or activities without having to provide any identifying information. Often community members don’t want to report illegal or risky activity for fear of getting involved. Through the TIP411 program, law enforcement agencies across Rice County can accept 100% anonymous crime tips via cell phone text messages. This resource allows community members to reach out for help when they feel that their safety is threatened, or when they are concerned for their family, friends and neighbors.

Community members can use TIP411 to report information related to crime, drugs, fights, underage drinking, threats, violence, vandalism, theft, drunk drivers, weapons, gangs and people in trouble. To text a tip, simply start a new text message. Type 847411 in the phone number spot. Type the keyword RICECO in the message portion of the text. Type the specific crime information after the keyword and hit send.

Messages are sent to Citizen Observer, Inc. and stripped of all identifying information. A local officer receives the message and determines whether Faribault Police, Northfield Police, or the Rice County Sheriff’s Office will follow up.

Read the full column from Northfield News and watch a public service announcement about Rice County’s tip411 system.