New Technology Helps Police Fight Crime

(WOLO) WEST COLUMBIA,S.C., –It’s only been online for 2 weeks but West Columbia Police Chief dennis Tyndell tells me they are already seeing how the system is going to make a difference in how they fight crime. The free web site, RAIDS online is only being used in 3 other jurisdictions, allows the public to click on to one page and using a color coded map, find out where, when and what type of crime in taking place in the West Columbia community. Authorities say, not only is it helping community watch programs become more effective, but it’s also helping officials figure out where they should be allocating most of their resources. Some business owners in the area say they welcome the new technology that is going to help keep them and their customers safe. Police say they’re only getting started. The site that’s available on your internet, i-phone, and i-pad will soon be available on Android phones as well. Before the end of the year authorities say they’d like to add sex offenders to the page, so citizens can be aware of where they are living in their community as well. You can check out the website by logging onto: www.raidsonline.com