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Updated 02/25/2013 02:53 PM

Police announce anonymous tips line

Kingston Police launched a new community tip line, which is designed to keep the tipster's identity anonymous. YNN's Alexandra Weishaupt has more on the program that's aimed to increase communication between locals and the department.

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KINGSTON, N.Y. -- “Kingston police is on the right track with a lot of the stuff they’re doing. They’re really making a difference in the city,” said Nate Horowitz.

It’s the latest program offering folks the ability to notify police of suspicious activity through text messaging, email or a mobile App.

“All we’re getting is a user ID, but we can’t attach that to any person any place or any phone. We can’t trace it back,” said Kingston Police Lt. Thierry Croizer.

Police say the program is designed to scrub the message of all contact information before they receive any pictures, videos or texts. It then allows them to reach out and hold a two-way dialogue with the tipster if he or she chooses to do so.

The department is hoping that by remaining anonymous, community members will be more willing to share information, and many within the city say they’re on board.

“I think more people would be inclined to use it because of the fact they don't have to worry about possibly going to court, and testify if they saw something,” said Shannon Cozza.

“I support anything they do to increase the safety of the public,” said Horowitz.

All in an effort to form a stronger working relationship with people to help cut down on crime throughout the city.

“We need their input. We have officers working the street but if we have extra eyes out there and if people feel a little bit more at ease texting or sending it through an application we benefit and the city benefits,” said Kingston Police Chief Egidio Tinti.

People can use the tip-soft program by texting "KingstonPD" plus the message to CRIMES, or by sending a tip on the web.


To learn more about submitting tips on the new system, visit: