Morris County: Now You Can Text Anonymous Crime Reports

Seen a crime that has you saying OMG? The Morris County Sheriff's CrimeStoppers program is now accepted anonymous text messages.

To send an anonymous message to the program, text  27463 (CRIMES on a traditional number pad). The program has also posted an online submission form at its redesigned Web site www.CopCall.org.

Sheriff Edward Rochford said in a statement from the county that the addition of anonymous texting seemed like a good way of reaching young people.

Also added to the Web site is information about threats to schools and how to respond to gang activities, Rochford said.

John Sette, CrimeStoppers chairman, said the Morris CrimeStoppers is also the first such program in the nation to be accepting tips on consumer fraud.

According to Sette, both text tips and online tips are now received directly at the county's Communication Center, and urgent tips are immediately forwarded to the appropriate law enforcement agency.

Morris County Sheriff's CrimeStoppers was established in 1986 as a communication tool for citizens to anonymously provide information about criminal activity to law enforcement without direct involvement. Tips that lead to an arrest or an indictment entitle the information provider to a cash reward.

Individuals may also still phone tips in to 973-COP-CALL.