CPD launches free mobile app

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) — The Chattanooga Police Department launched their free mobile app as a way to connect with community members.

On Friday, Police Chief David Roddy explained how to use the app. Features will include neighborhood crime tracking, real-time emergency notifications and access to social media feeds.

“The best feature on the app though is that users can help the police solve and even prevent crime in their neighborhoods by sending tips to CPD through the app,” Chief Roddy said.

Officers say this is a great way for them to be able to communicate with residents.

“It gives us the ability to have an open dialogue with community members, regardless of what the circumstances or what the tip is,” said Lt. John Chambers, with the Chattanooga Police Department.

The cost to implement the program was $40,000.

“The good news is that was paid for via grant funding. So it did not cost our tax payers anything. We were very excited to get this paid for using grant funding as opposed to having to reallocate funding from other capital projects,” Lt. Chambers said.

Chief Roddy, wants to stress this is not a replacement for calling 911 during an emergency.

“If you feel that you are in danger, call 911. That is the most direct way to get your police officers to respond to help you, the app is a away to get other information to us, so that we can address those other concerns outside of an emergency situation,” Chief Roddy said.

The crime mapping feature will soon be added and there can be up to five updates a year to the app.