How does kTip work?
Tipsters text the word kTip at the beginning of a text message sent to 274637 (CRIMES) followed by their message about underage drinking activity.
The Tip is immediately encrypted as it goes to a server in Canada before being directed back to Knox Dispatch. kTip is the code word that directs the tip to the dispatch center.
A 2 way conversation begins between the tipster and dispatch. No identifying questions are asked. At any time the tipster can end the conversation.
Smartphone owners can download the TipSubmit mobile application. Tips can also be submitted online via buttons on the coalition website (Healthyknoxcounty.org). Once conversation stops between tipster and dispatch, tip is forwarded to the appropriate law enforcement on duty. Tips also can be submitted by going to the www.HealthyKnoxCounty.org
kTip can also be used to report other illegal activity although 911 should be used to report dangerous or life threatening situations. This has been useful in alerting police to underage drinking parties being planned. The program in being used with good response in southern Maine. The following link is about how the program is working in other parts of Maine.
All five Law enforcement agencies in Knox County Community Health Coalition have teamed up with Knox County Community Health Coalition to launch kTip, a program which allows community members to notify police about underage drinking, drug use and a range of other crimes. The program is funded by the Maine Office of Substance Abuse.
No comments:
Post a Comment