A simple tip is often all it takes to bring a criminal to justice.

In fact, the Jamestown Police Department has, on more than one occasion, acknowledged public tips as a major crime-fighting tool.

For this reason, a new app, simply entitled the Jamestown PD app, was employed to further enhance public engagement, giving residents a new, convenient platform to offer information.

Developed by tip411, the Jamestown PD app allows the public to share anonymous tips, receive alerts and access information right from their Smartphones.

Residents without a smartphone will still be able to send an anonymous text tip via their cellphone by texting keyword JPDTIP and their message to 847411 (tip411).

“(Tips) are very important to us,” said Captain Robert F. Samuelson, division commander of the JPD. “We’ve enjoyed the relationship we’ve had with the community through our anonymous tip line … and this (app) is just going to be another tool that they can use.”

According to the JPD, the new app and tip411 text a tip system are completely anonymous since the app technology removes all identifying information before police see the tips. Photographs and videos can also be sent to police through the app.

Anonymous web tips can also be submitted through the department’s Facebook page by clicking on the Report a Tip link.

Residents can also contact the JPD anonymous tip line at 483-TIPS (8477).

More than 1,400 communities across the country use tip411. For more information, visit: www.tip411.com.

The app is free and is available via Google Play Store, iTunes or by visiting the JPD Facebook page at www.facebook.com/jamestownpolicedepartment.