The Leland Police Department has partnered with the Neighbors app by Ring. The free app allows Leland residents to send and receive real-time crime and safety information and updates on their smartphones.
Ring launched the Neighbors app in May 2018 as part of its mission to support safer neighborhoods and build more connected communities. Since that time, it has helped catch thieves stealing packages, prevented home and car burglaries and improved neighborhood safety across the U.S.
The Neighbors app network, which currently has millions of users nationwide, can be utilized by residents whether or not they own a Ring security system or home monitoring product. It also allows local law enforcement to send real-time alerts to residents within a particular area, provide public safety updates and submit requests for video footage and information that may be relevant to an investigation.
To protect the safety of users, posts are made anonymously. Local law enforcement responding through the app are identified by rank and full name, further increasing the safety of the online tool. Further, law enforcement cannot gain access to cameras or user data through the app; officers and investigators can only view content that residents have either publicly posted or have decided to share in response to a specific request.
“This innovative resource allows us to further engage our citizens in public safety issues and awareness in a manner that is both convenient and safe for residents. In this day and age, we must look beyond the traditional methods of fighting crime, and the Neighbors app will be a useful resource for gathering critical information as part of an overall investigation,” said Lieutenant James Almond of the Leland Police Department.
As with any other social media platform, Leland Police Department’s participation on the Neighbors app is not a substitute for calling 911 in the event of an emergency, Almond noted.
“We still encourage residents who see a crime occurring to immediately pick up the phone, dial 911 and report the incident through official department channels,” he said.
The Neighbors app is available on iOS, Android and FireOS devices. To sign up, Leland residents can text “JOINTODAY” to 555888 to receive a link to download the app.
For more information about the Neighbors app, contact Leland Deputy Police Chief Brad Shirley, (910) 367-5637 or bshirley@townofleland.com.