The University of Akron Police Department launched a new public safety system that rewards those who report crimes.

“See it. Report it. Get rewarded!” gives those who see illegal activity a chance to earn rewards for anonymously reporting information. All tips go directly to UA Police Department Captain Brian Taylor, who then takes appropriate actions.

The reward for a useful tip generally ranges from $25 to $50, and depends on the type of crime or public safety concern. Tips are not limited to crime, though. They can be submitted in regard to any campus occurrence.

Rewarded tips include tips on theft, drug-related instances, vandalism, or automobile accidents where the driver flees the scene.

Depending on the gravity of the crime, a tip reward can be up to $2,000.

The reward system has four methods to submit anonymous and useful tips. Anyone in the UA community can text, use the app on a smartphone, make a phone call, or submit a form online.

Submittals by text message must be sent to 274637 (CRIMES), and must begin with the keyword “ZIPTIP.” Text messages are sent to a secure system where the submitter’s phone number is encrypted and assigned an alias.

For anonymous photos or videos, submitters must download the iOS or Android application, “TipSubmit Mobile” and select “The University of Akron Police” as the law enforcement agency choice.

Available 24 hours a day is the Summit County Crime Stoppers organization, which can be anonymously reached at 330-434-2677 (COPS). Non-anonymous emergency phone numbers include 330-972-2911 for off-campus emergencies; however, calling 911 is never out of the question when it comes to safety.

A form can also be filed online at <www.tipsubmit.com/WebTips.aspx?AgencyID=556>.

“Mobile and web I can communicate right away, but I still don’t know the identity [of the submitter]” Taylor said. “I assure you, I have no way to figure out an individual.”

If chosen for a reward, the submitter’s alias will be contacted to claim their reward, but the identity of the person is never known. Only useful tips that help stop crimes have the chance to be rewarded.

“It’s a win-win for all of us,” Taylor said.

This reward system provides the opportunity to keep both students and the university safe.