Since
August 2009, Edina residents have had another way to communicate with the Police
Department: tip411. This technology allows anyone with a cell phone the ability
to anonymously provide helpful information. Someone with knowledge about a crime
can simply text the keyword EPDTip and the message to tip411, and the
information is sent right into the Edina Police Department.
Confidential and anonymous information is sometimes critical in solving or
preventing crime, and tip411 uses of state-of-the-art technology to reach out to
many people who may have vital knowledge but want to remain in the background.
This new communication tool also allows for the option of real-time texting
between a police officer and the texter. Edina School Resource Officer Kenna
Dick said, “I’m excited about the possibilities of tip411. It’s easy to use and
will encourage and increase our communication with the public, especially
students.”
It’s important to remember that texting to tip411 does not replace 9-1-1, the
emergency phone number; texting to tip411 is just for sharing information.
Residents needing police or medical assistance or who want to report anything
immediate should continue to call 9-1-1.
