Text-a-Tip takes to the street

The Wilmington Police Department has a new roaming advertisement. It is the Text-a-Tip van.

Police officers will drive it around Wilmington, as well as park it in crowded places, as a reminder of the Text-a-Tip option.

The program has been underway for less than a year, allowing people to anonymously share information with police. Lieutenant Jim Varrone said the van targets those who are text and email savvy. “If they wish to remain anonymous and don’t want to call the police but want to tell us about a criminal enterprise or where drugs are being sold or who’s breaking into someone’s home or cars – that sort of thing – this is a great way to do it,” he said.

Lieutenant Varrone said Text-a-Tip has led to some arrests, but the department hopes it catches on more, especially with the new van.

If you have an anonymous tip, text Tip708, then your message and send it to CRIMES.