Crime-fighting is tough. Look at Batman. That guy’s a mess. Still, for most people, if you witness a crime you want to do something about it. And while screaming “citizen’s arrest” seems about as effective as a substitute teacher in a junior high class, using that smartphone with all its media-capturing features actually makes sense.
The town of Marion, Virginia has released a free app that citizens can use to report crimes. The iWatch Marion app is available for iOS and Android (sorry Windows Phone vigilantes) and will let crime-fighting citizens call, text or send photos and videos of a crime in progress to the local Marion police department.
Lt. Andrew Moss of the Marion police department told the Bristol Herald Courier that the app could be used to report incidents that citizens might not feel worthy of a 911 call or calling dispatchers. In other words, if you see a kidnapping, call 911. If you see a guy vandalizing the local library use the iWatch Marion app.
So be careful out there, folks. Reporting crime is a great way to help the local police keep your city safe. But, if we’ve learned anything from Bruce Wayne, sometimes you can let it get too personal.
Roberto is a Wired Staff Writer for Gadget Lab covering augmented reality, home technology, and all the gadgets that fit in your backpack. Got a tip? Send him an email at: roberto_baldwin [at] wired.com.
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Virginia Town Releases Crime-Fighting App
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Virginia Town Releases Crime-Fighting App
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Virginia Town Releases Crime-Fighting App
