Could Texting Be Used as Crime Deterrent?

NOT long ago, state officials almost everywhere adopted what is now known as an Amber Alert. It’s an ingenious system to help police find a vehicle suspected in the use of child abduction. Many lives have been saved as traffic warning signs flash information about an abductor.

Recently, a Loudoun County, Va., man turned himself over to authorities for his involvement in a hit and run and larceny at a local convenience store.

Jeffrey Michael Bellman, 20, has been charged with a felony and misdemeanor hit and run, and misdemeanor larceny and underage possession of alcohol. Despite his best attempts of fleeing, Bellman was cornered by an adult customer who was dragged by the suspect’s car and notified police of the incident.

The Loudoun Sheriff’s office used the Loudoun Alert System to notify county residents and business owners of the incident. The system alerts citizens via the roam secure alert network for send out emergency text communications.

Yes, texting can be used to help police, and now that people know about the system, surely it could be used as a deterrent.

According to Sheriff Steve Simpson, the system is of great value to country residents. Whenever there is a major incident, it is important that the information be sent out quickly and accurately. People having information can make a difference.

Using what sense he has, Bellman knew he had been fingered for the crime. He gave himself up to law enforcement.

The Alert System is free to anyone with an e-mail account who wants the latest news in Loudoun County.

About the Author

Ralph C. Jensen is the Publisher/Editor in chief of Security Today magazine.

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