By BECKY KISER
Hays Post
The Hays Police Department has just implemented a new partnership with WeTip.com.
The program is similar to Crimestoppers, but is a hands-off package deal for the city, according to Hays police Lt. Jeff Ridgway.
"Those wishing to report a crime can do that several ways, especially if they are wanting to stay anonymous," Ridgway said.
Reports can be made online at www.wetip.com.
Tipsters can also call or text 844-785-1214.
The 24-hour toll-free phone number is dedicated to the Hays Police Department.
When calling, "you can speak with a trained WeTip agent to report any bullying, threats, discrimination or other tips. You can report any time, day or night," Ridgway explained.
To text a tip, type in the word "report" to 844-785-1214 and you'll "receive a direct link on your mobile device where you can submit reports safely and anonymously."
As part of the Hays police/WeTip partnership, WeTip offers up to a $1,000 reward for information that leads to an arrest and successful prosecution.
"Keep in mind that reward is managed and offered by WeTip," Ridgway noted. "The Hays Police Department does not manage that."
A link to the tip site will also be available on the city of Hays website www.haysusa.com as well as a QR code which can be scanned to reach WeTip.
WeTip replaces an the police department's online reporting system which was not monitored 24 hours a day, according to Ridgway.
"WeTip staffs the call center 24 hours a day... And they actually do an initial evaluation of the tip and the spirit of the incident. And depending on the nature [of the incident], if it requires immediate [response], they will notify our dispatch center appropriately.
"Other reports that are determined not to require an immediate reponse, get forwarded to our investigations unit for review.
The program is provided to the city of Hays as part of the premium it pays to its property and liability insurance provider, Midwest Public Risk, according to Collin Bielser, assistant city manager.
"The service is not being charged to the police department," Ridgway said. "It's just part of that premium, so we're taking advantage of that free service to the city."
WeTip became effective in Hays at the end of December and just finished the "go live" process.
The next step is public awareness of the tip line, including in Hays schools and parks.
"We plan to distribute posters as well as some signage around the city to encourage the utilization of WeTip," said Ridgway.
"You call this number and you're getting straight through to our team, if you will.
"When WeTip answers this phone number, they know they're getting something for the city of Hays police department."
According to the WeTip website, the 50-year-old service based in Cucamonga, California, receives more than 25,000 tips each year and currently has a recorded 8,372 resulting convictions.