 |
| SentiGuard is available for free in the App Store or Google Play. |
Quick. What’s the most powerful tool to help deter crime in today’s technology-driven society? License plate readers? Rumbler intersection clearing system? What about drones? The Fort Thomas Police Department is hoping that the next best thing to creating an already safe community even more secure is already in the homes – or pockets – of its residents.
SentiGuard, a free app available on the App Store or Google Play, will be rolling out in Fort Thomas this month.
SentiGuard lets users send detailed reports, or anonymous tips, to their local law enforcement straight from their iOS or Android powered devices. Users who download it will be able to post pictures, videos and/or audio files. All media is encrypted and safely stored.
Fort Thomas Police Detective, Adam Noe said that SentiGuard is being tested in select markets and Fort Thomas was able to receive the full-services of the company at no cost. In Kentucky, Dayton has used this service. Noe said that they have been very happy with the way it’s working.
Noe noted that it should not be used in emergency situations.
“The other great thing about the app is that we will be able to send push notifications to residents who have signed up for the service regarding public safety. We can also use this as a way to communicate directly with those who are reporting a crime in real time,” said Noe.
According to SentiGuard presentation, the app is a “force-multiplying tool that allows ordinary citizens to become effective, crimefighting allies. (They) take the neighborhood watch concept and expand it to a whole new level.”
 |
| Det. Adam Noe discuses SentiGuard. FTM file. |
“We need to find a way to advance and embrace the new technological world. SentiGuard will provide us with instant communication with our residents,” said Noe. “We’re hoping it will drastically help our investigations. People that may not feel comfortable providing information can still do so anonymously.”
Noe, who had 11 years of police experience before joining the Fort Thomas Police Department in March 2012, said that he has been utilizing recording devices on the job in some capacity since 2001. “We were ahead of the curve with vest cameras in Fort Thomas. Technology is trending that way. We are hoping that this app will be another way we can continue to reach out to the public and serve them in the best way possible.”
On a privacy note: personal information stored on the phone through this app is not sent to the department unless the user chooses to send it. The app does not track a user’s location unless the app is being used. Users can easily turn their location on or off within the app’s settings button.
Fort Thomas will have a free one year trial to use the service, at which point they may be charged to continue. SentiGuard should be available for use in Fort Thomas by Friday, July 3.
