One town (Elgin, IL), has launched an easier way to help police with crime tips that can be achieved using text messaging. I am thrilled that this technology is being put to good use. This is a step in the right direction to slow down the crime rate in Illinois.

Police said they are hopeful that this new system allowing the public to text-message anonymous tips will encourage more of a dialogue with younger residents.

Launched about two weeks ago, the new system, called “tip411,” establishes a two-way “chat” through which people can send text messages and police can respond while keeping private the identifying information of the tipster.

Elgin Police Department Special Investigations Division Cmdr. Bill Wolf said the system gives residents an alternative means of helping to police their own communities.

“It’s just another method for people to give us information on any criminal activity, drug activity or gang activity that’s going on,” he said. “It’s also a good way for younger people and students to get us some information about things going on, or particularly if there’s something going on in the school that they want to let us know about.”

I think this new system should be rolled out nationally. The crime in Chicago amongst teen homicides this year is staggering. If this system launches in Chicago, it will send a message to the criminals that they are being watched.

What happens if I am texting a tip to the police and I have an accident? Should I rat myself out?