Crime reporting app lets Methuen police, community share real-time crime info

BOSTON — For Methuen police, public safety is all about adapting to the times.

So instead of having people call a dispatcher or show up at the station, you can now report crimes right through a free app.

The Methuen Police Department has launched its “Methuen PD App.”

“If we want to engage the community, then we have to engage them on the level of communication they're using and everyone is using phones from 3-year-olds to 90-year-olds,” Methuen Police Chief Joe Solomon told FOX25.

With the app, residents can look up real-time crimes in their neighborhood, receive safety alerts from police and text in anonymous tips.

“This way, the tips come directly into the station, cutting out myself and the social media offices from having to relay the messages,” said Solomon.

Methuen police are hoping the app will help detectives solve more crimes.

According to police, they've investigated 468 crimes in the past seven months, including 49 burglaries, 25 motor vehicle thefts and 1 homicide.

The app also allows residents to look up crimes in their neighborhood; information many told us they'll now be taking a look at.

But as useful as the app is, Chief Joseph Solomon stresses for emergencies you still need to call 911.

Cox Media Group