Anonymous tip line for public in Rockland helps law enforcement agencies
On Tuesday, News 12 got a firsthand look at how the Rockland district attorney's "Tip411" works at their office in Pomona.
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On Tuesday, News 12 got a firsthand look at how the Rockland district attorney's "Tip411" works at their office in Pomona.
The district attorney's office has a phone application that allows the public to submit anonymous tips about suspicious activity to law enforcement, including pictures and videos. That information is sent to the right police agency.
"Since 9/11, we've been saying 'see something, say something' and this is kind of just an extension of that," said Earl Lorence, a detective sergeant with Clarkstown police and also the director of the crime analysis center, which is part of the DA's office.
He explains some of the process behind the tip line.
"It's not an official document per se, it's just texting. How you would text on your phone to your loved ones, you text that to the police and then there will be a real two way communication," he says.
Lorence says they have received about 700 tips in recent years and 70 so far in 2025, with most information about quality-of-life issues and drugs.
The 411 tipline has played a role in some arrests News 12 has recently reported, like at massage parlors in Clarkstown and Haverstraw for alleged prostitution.
Authorities encourage people to continue informing them through the app.
"We find it to be of great assistance to law enforcement in Rockland County. It helps us in the prosecution of cases. This way everybody can chip in and do something without fear of retaliation," said Rockland County District Attorney Thomas Walsh.
Authorities reiterate that the 411 tip line is not for emergencies.
People should still call 911 for immediate help.
