Crime Reports App Keeps Residents Informed in Their Neighborhoods

Curious about why police were on your street last night? Where were those sirens racing in such a hurry?

The Lakewood Police Department is looking to renew its contract for the Crime Reports app that provides residents an inside look at what the police are doing in the community.

And, the department is encouraging residents to download the app for free.

“Our No. 1 goal is to keep the public informed about what’s happening in their neighborhoods,” said Lakewood Police Chief Timothy Malley.

However, the police also use the Crime Reports app internally to identify crime trends, target enforcement, and identify those who might be responsible for trends in crime.

In addition, Malley said he believes the also app helps to reduce incidents around the city.

“We certainly believe that having the public informed about what’s happening around them leads to improved participation and awareness,” he said.

Malley said the police department plans to renew its contract with the company for 2015 later this year.

The app is free to download and easy to use. Colored markers differentiate the incidents in specific neighborhoods. For example, blue boxes mark thefts, orange boxes note assaults.

Residents can also find registered sex offenders in the city.

App users can also filter by dates. Or, limit the search results to a specific neighborhood. Email sign-ups are also available.

Residents can download the app for free, by searching their smartphones for Crime Reports. Visit crimereports.com for more information.