LEE COUNTY, Fla. --- The Fort Myers Police Department launches "tip411," a crime-fighting tool for Southwest Florida residents.
"Tip411" is a app that allows residents to submit tips with their smartphones or through the website FMPD's website.
"The new tip411 is an anonymous tip line designed to allow the public to report non-emergency criminal activity directly to the Fort Myers Police Department," said Lt. William Musante of FMPD Support Operations.
Residents who use the system will be issued a randomly generated access code called, Tipster ID. Deputies are able to correspond with residents without seeing their personal information.
According to FMPD the new app, the website and the system are not meant to take the place of an emergency call to 911.
"It's our duty to work to reduce crime and contribute to the safety of all in our community," said Chief Derrick Diggs of the Fort Myers Police Department. "We do this through collaboration with our residents, and believe tip411 will us better engage community members of all ages and backgrounds to make Fort Myers a safer and more welcoming place for all.
Residents without a smartphone will still be able to send anonymous tips with their cell phones by texting keyword FMPD and their message to 847411 (tip411).
The app is available for download for free via the Google Play Store, iTunes App Store, or by visiting the Fort Myers Police Department website at www.FMPolice.com.
