The University Police  Department launched an anonymous tip reporting tool for students and the community to use to report anonymous crime to the dispatch center on Feb. 12.

The tip reporting tool is giving an opportunity for the public to send important information regarding any incidents they witness anonymously to the police via a message through the ‘MyChicoState’ app, text messaging, or on the UPD website.

“Simply tap the ‘Report Crime’ icon in the ‘MyChicoState’ app or text the keyword ‘CHICOSTATE’ (not case-sensitive) and the message/tip 847411,” the campus calendar announcement said. 

Anonymous tips may also be submitted through UPD’s website by clicking the “Anonymous Tip Reporting” link. Photos may be included within text messages.

“It’s really to help keep Chico safe,” Commander Christopher Nicodemus said. “It also goes to the administrators, myself, the chief and some other staff on our team.”

Nicodemus explained how it is a different way for the community to report crimes without having to feel pressure or nervousness when being involved. 

“A lot of people carry their devices with them and if they see something they can quickly let us know because these tips are sent to staff in our dispatch center that are on call 24/7,” Nicodemus said.

Chief John Reid initially created the program to launch the tool, but after various adjustments and proper funding, it was able to be launched and accessed in different ways for the city.

“This tip tool goes hand-in-hand with all of the safety resources we’ve created such as the blue lights and the card swipes on the doors,” Nicodemus said. “It’s another tool that we have to help us keep the campus and the community safer with information.”

Angelina Mendez can be contacted at [email protected] or on Twitter @theorion_angie