Hot for an active crime hotline
On Friday, the Globe reported a plan by Boston Police Commissioner Ed Davis (our very own former chief) to institute an anonymous text messaging system to get tips on crime from residents—particularly young people familiar with this modern form of communication. On Saturday, the Herald ran an editorial “Crime-fighting now made EZ” where it reported that Hill, Holliday, a leading ad firm, was developing a free publicity campaign promoting the program. Great for Boston, huh? Good for them. (Maybe you’re sensing a bit of envy here. Well, it’s true; I’m envious.) As a member of the City Manager’s Gang Advisory Board, I can tell you some of the discussion at our June meeting centered on Lowell’s crime prevention hotline and its language, staffing, and other limitations due to lack of funding. For instance, are you aware we have a crime stoppers hotline? Do you know the number (978-459-tips) or that you can receive cash awards for information leading to an arrest? Did you know the information can be provided to police anonymously—and you still get the cash? Unfortunately, our hotline is not staffed 24/7 by multi-linguists who speak the diverse languages prevalent in our gateway city (not even close). Yet, we know residents in neighborhoods, witnesses, bystanders, and even victims can make a huge impact on police ability to capture criminals and prevent crime, but these same people are often afraid, unwilling, or unaware how to help. The fact is, like most complicated issues such as gangs, it takes a community to impact change—that means all of us, eyes open, and willing to make the call. It also means someone is at the other end to receive it.