TXT Tips to CPD Through Android App

Clearwater Police first launched an app for tipsters to send in anonymous information from their iPhonein 2011.

There were more than 890 tips sent through the Tip411 software to police. That information led to, or helped with, 21 arrests including cocaine, marijuana and prescription medication seizures.

Building from that success, the department is expanding with a similar app for smartphones using the Android platform.

"This mobile app alleviates time and technology barriers. Anyone can send us information - including pictures - whenever or wherever that person chooses," said Clearwater Police Chief Anthony Holloway in a release. "We're hopeful that a greater accessibility from more phones will mean more information."

The app, developed by Citizen Observer, lets the public send anonymous tips to police and for the police to reply, creating a two-way anonymous chat. The technology removes identifying information before the police department gets the tip.

Citizens also can send an anonymous tip to the Clearwater Police Department by texting the word CWPD and the tip to 847411 (tip411). Anonymous web tips can also be submitted to the department website: www.clearwaterpolice.org or Facebook page: www.facebook.com/ClearwaterPolice.

Download the app here: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.citizenobserver.Clearwater.PD.Tips

Other ways to connect:

• For emergencies, call 911.
• For non-emergencies, call 727-562-4242.
• Tip information can be called into the tip line 727-562-4080, emailed to police@myclearwater.com.

Related coverage:

• OMG CPD Launches Tipster App