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MPD uses Atlas One app to send crime alerts
Milwaukee police are hopeful that putting information directly in the hands community members through the Atlas One app could lead to more tips.
MILWAUKEE - Milwaukee police are using an app to deliver the latest information about incidents in your neighborhood. Police are hopeful that putting information directly in the hands of community members could lead to more tips when a crime occurs near them.
The app is simple to download (for Apple and Android) and even easier to use.
"The Atlas One app, as you can see here, it's like, a little triangle," said Sgt. Efrain Cornejo, Milwaukee Police Department.
With the click of a button, Milwaukee's latest safety alerts are available at your fingertips.
"For example, when a shooting or another major type of crime incident happens," said Sgt. Cornejo. "The real purpose of this app is to be kind of a one-stop-shop."
Each alert comes with a map.
"I can bring up this most recent one for an incident that just happened which was a homicide," said Sgt. Cornejo.
If you're walking or driving, and enter that perimeter, you'll be alerted again.
"So this little box is the geofence telling you you’re coming upon a certain crime or whatever the alert was for," said Sgt. Cornejo.
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Used by law enforcement and government agencies across the nation, Milwaukee police are also hoping that notifying the public directly when things happen may spark the memory of those who were in the area at the time.
"In the instructions section, it will have contact information on who the user can contact if they have any information on this particular incident," said Sgt. Cornejo.
The crime, safety and traffic alerts – classified as minor, moderate or severe – are also posted by MPD on Twitter.
The app, however, is just one more tool MPD is using to keep Milwaukeeans safe.
"Especially if you don’t like social media, it is very useful in that aspect," said Sgt. Cornejo.
Also on the app, you'll find current resources, like summer cooling centers and COVID-19 testing sites. Plus, MPD is working to launch a feature geared specifically toward high school students. It would not replace 911, but it would allow students to report tips about school safety threats directly to MPD.