Scranton police department launches online reporting system [The Times-Tribune, Scranton, Pa.]

Oct. 31--Do-it-yourself online police reports due

No officer needed for minor crime

Rather than dialing 911 for every minor crime, Scranton residents can create their own police reports starting next week.

The Scranton Police Department will launch a new online police report system on Monday. Scranton Police Chief Carl Graziano said the new Coplogic system will allow residents to file police reports for minor crimes.

"This will alleviate 15-20 percent of officers having to respond to take these reports," Chief Graziano said. "Those officers can be staying out in the neighborhoods."

The system is designed for minor crimes without known suspects such as thefts amounting to less than $1,000, criminal mischief or vandalism to a vehicle or property, graffiti, harassment by communication, identity theft and lost property -- all crimes that may not require immediate police presence.

Michael Jenkins, Ph.D., assistant professor of criminal justice at the University of Scranton, said efficient use of personnel is a common reason for police departments to introduce an online, citizen-driven reporting system.

"The citizen needs to file a report for insurance purposes," Dr. Jenkins said. "It's not necessary for police officers to respond on the scene."

Karin Foster, head of the West Scranton Hyde Park Neighborhood Watch, agreed with Dr. Jenkins' analysis.

"It's a really useful tool for the smaller crimes," Ms. Foster said. "If you don't have time to wait for an officer, it gives you instructions without taking an officer off the street."

After a report is filed online, Chief Graziano said it will be reviewed by the police department and, if approved, converted into an official police report. The department then emails a copy to the resident who originally filed the report online.

"It's a benefit all-around," Chief Graziano said. "We're anticipating we're going to take in more information and (residents) can do this at their convenience."

Beginning Tuesday, those wishing to file a report can do so at www.scrantonpa.gov/scrantonpd/coplogic/start-report.html. Dr. Jenkins said participating in the online reporting system enables residents to be the "eyes and ears" of the police department on a virtual level.

"Use of Coplogic is having citizens take a more active role," Dr. Jenkins said. "They're becoming more involved in the healthfulness of their communities."

Contact the writer: sscinto@timesshamrock.com, @sscintoTT on Twitter

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