NORTH ADAMS — The North Adams Police Department has established a confidential tip line to allow residents to anonymously report criminal activity and provide information about crimes.
The tip line at 413-652-7816 accepts both phone calls and text messages at any hour, according to Detective Sergeant Zustra, who approved the initiative on July 23.
The department recognized the need for an alternative reporting method for citizens who may be reluctant to contact police directly due to concerns about being identified as information sources.
Callers can leave voicemails or send text messages without revealing their identity, and the line will not be answered directly.
Residents can also send images or videos via text message regarding suspected narcotics activity in their neighborhoods while remaining anonymous.
Those who wish to speak personally with a detective can indicate this preference in their voicemail or text message, which will be the only circumstance under which they are contacted back.
Members of the Detective Unit will check calls and messages periodically throughout the day.
The department emphasized that no information is too small or unimportant in the effort to fight crime in the city.
Police stressed that the tip line is not monitored 24/7 and should not be used for crimes currently in progress or time-sensitive incidents.
For emergencies, residents should continue to call 911.
