Essex Police have announced plans for a new app that will allow users to report non-emergency crimes, pass on information to the police and check progress on a case.
The app, which could be introduced as early as next year, could help police reduce officer numbers and save the force up to £60 million in five years.
Chief Superintendent Andy Prophet said: “In a modern world, where technologies and methods of communication are constantly changing, it is important people have more choice about how to get help or advice they need”.
Technology is changing the way policing works in Essex and in the UK, helping them provide a better public service. Later this year, Essex Police will be issued with handheld computers so they can have a greater street presence and access to information instantly.
Over 80% of the calls made to the police in Essex are of a non-emergency nature, and the use of technology in this instance will allow for police to better focus their efforts.
“This does not mean that all policing is going to be virtual. Face to face contact with members of the public and emergency response will still remain an absolutely fundamental part of policing,” he said.
It is hoped that this new means of communication with the police will encourage students, county residents and visitors to report non-emergency crimes and keep updated with the progress of large public appeals.
9to5Mac
Police app to report crime in Essex | The Rabbit Newspaper
Essex Police have announced plans for a new app that will allow users to report non-emergency crimes, pass on information to the police and check progress on a case.
The app, which could be introduced as early as next year, could help police reduce officer numbers and save the force up to £60 million in five years.
Chief Superintendent Andy Prophet said: “In a modern world, where technologies and methods of communication are constantly changing, it is important people have more choice about how to get help or advice they need”.
Technology is changing the way policing works in Essex and in the UK, helping them provide a better public service. Later this year, Essex Police will be issued with handheld computers so they can have a greater street presence and access to information instantly.
Over 80% of the calls made to the police in Essex are of a non-emergency nature, and the use of technology in this instance will allow for police to better focus their efforts.
“This does not mean that all policing is going to be virtual. Face to face contact with members of the public and emergency response will still remain an absolutely fundamental part of policing,” he said.
It is hoped that this new means of communication with the police will encourage students, county residents and visitors to report non-emergency crimes and keep updated with the progress of large public appeals.
9to5Mac