CHICAGO — Metra has introduced a smartphone app to allow customers to quickly report crimes, suspicious activity, and other safety or security concerns.
Metra says the Metra COPS app “is meant for the reporting of safety and security issues on Metra trains and facilities, such as a crime in progress, disruptive or aggressive behavior, suspicious activity, unattended bags or packages, vandalism, panhandling, fare evasion or other concerns.” It allows customers to send a photo along with a description, and automatically disables the flash on the smartphone camera to ensure discretion.
A Metra police dispatcher will reply via the app and can send out alerts to passengers.
The app is available at Apple’s App Store and for Android users at Google Play.
More information about the app is available in a Q&A here.
The Daily Herald reports a federal grant is paying for the program. Massachusetts-based app provider ELERTS Corp. has a five-year contract with Metra for $274,000.
Mr Rice is that a four legged bull or a railroad bull? 🙂
I think one would prefer they call it in than say nothing. The issue with railfans and railroads are the police response, not the reporting of. Police tend to be the “uninformed” ones on how railfans operate. The term “bull in a china shop” is appropriate as they tend to confront with a presumption of guilt
If local law enforcement had a better understanding of how railfans operate, I think you would see less consternation in making the call outs easier.
I just have to wonder, though, how many railfans will be turned in with this app as potential terrorists by well-meaning but uninformed people?
But PHM-3, Uh no.
Nice to see F40C
I give Metra credit, they are trying. e-Ticketing, creative engine buys, tight budgets and now this. A lot for a little.