Bend Police launch mobile crime reporting app

The Bend Police Department launched a new smart phone app that gives citizens a platform to submit crime tips.

The mobile app was released this week, and police said Wednesday it’s a great way for them to learn more about what is going on around the city.

“What this app does it provides them with an ability to communicate with us and gives us an ability to communicate with them,” Bend Police Training Officer Scott Vincent said.

The app also provides residents with contact information for school resource police officers, press releases and bike registration.

The department hopes the app will decrease bike thefts, as the app will allow bicyclist to register their bikes with the department.

The app also allows residents to report a crime, all in the palms of their hands.

“The tip allows them to submit to the police department from their cellphone. They can send the information with the contact information or they can send it completely anonymous,” Vincent said.

The agency paid $2,900 for installing the software and will be paying $1,900 for service per year.

Vincent said the app will play a key role when an active crime is happening around the city.

The department will be allowed to send out emergency notifications to users on any roadblocks or incidents that pose a danger to the public.

Bend resident Lorenzo Perez said it’s a helpful tool to fight crime.

“I thought it was pretty neat that it had some local resources and just overall general information that helps connect to the local police officers here,” Perez said.

The app is available on the Apple app store or Google Play by searching City of Bend Police Department.