According to a press release from the Pittsfield Police, the department has for many years publicized the processes available to citizens who wish to provide anonymous tips to the Department. Whether it be texting PITTIP + a message to 847411 (tip411), or via their Mobile App (available on Android and IOS platforms), the NON-EMERGENCY messages are communicated to appropriate police personnel for follow-up or awareness.

Recently, the Mobile Apps have been updated with new features:

· Alert Group Participation Selection: Citizens can now choose which Pittsfield Police alert groups (schools, neighborhood watch groups, geographical zones, etc.) they want to receive notification from. By selecting any or all of them the recipient now controls the information that is most important to them.

· Share Tipster Location: With each tip that is sent to the Pittsfield Police through the app, the tipster can now opt to share their location with us to provide more detailed information. It always defaults to not share the location, but for tipsters who may not know where they are this option can be vital.

· A New Look and Foundation: A refreshed look and functionality of the user interface of our app to make it easier to interact.

Current app users may be directed to remove and again download the mobile app to experience the refreshed interface.

We hope that citizens not yet utilizing the app take the opportunity to connect with the Pittsfield Police Department in this exciting way. We are proud to provide these updates as part of our ongoing commitment to community engagement strategies through the latest technology.

Lieutenant Gary Traversa, PPD

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