01/25/2013

Winthrop Police Launch New Smart Phone App Targeting Crime

Quick Facts

WUWATCH is a free app available on the iPhone and Droid.

In addition to GPS-embedded crime trips and notification systems, the app also features a check-in option and law enforcement resources page.

Frank Zebedis

ROCK HILL, S.C. — Winthrop University’s Campus Police has unveiled a new and free safety application for smart phones. Called “WUWATCH,” the app will allow those who download it a new way to report crimes and emergencies to police in just a few simple clicks. People can also submit GPS-embedded crime tips that can include text, photo, video and audio components related to crimes and emergencies.

“This app is another example of the university’s commitment to keeping our campus safe and informed,” said Campus Police Chief Frank Zebedis. “This app also will allow non-Winthrop affiliated persons to take advantage of being connected to Winthrop.”

The university’s current WU Alert doesn’t permit parents, friends and visitors to register cell phones to receive alerts, Zebedis explained. This app bridges the divide by allowing everyone to receive alerts and information.

Other features of WUWATCH include a check-in option informing family and friends when a user has safely reached his or her destination and a “safety box” that provides access to an emergency map, alert notification section, law enforcement resources and a flashlight option, which uses the photo flash installed on a phone as a light beam. (Older smart phones may not be compatible with the flashlight feature.)

Users can find the app through the iPhone store or through Google Play for Droid phones by searching “WUWATCH.”

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