Benton Harbor creates anonymous tip line

BENTON HARBOR, Mich – Benton Harbor will roll out a new way for people to report crimes or suspicious activity. 

The soon to be unveiled anonymous tip line powered by “Tip 411” was approved by City Commissioners for two years at a cost of $6,000. 

“I think this program is a very good idea that you could report anonymously and make statements and hopefully prevent some crimes,” Benton Harbor resident Annette Hill said. 

The new service works three ways when making an anonymous tip.  

“You can do it through your smartphone, you can do it directly through texting or you can do it via our web form which will be connected to our website,” Benton Harbor Department of Public Safety Director Daniel McGinnis said. 

Benton Harbor police say this new tool could help identify people and solve crimes faster like a still unsolved shooting on Lavette Ave from 2018. 

“Our neighborhood really needs this in place because some of our residents are elderly and they’re afraid to call and they’re afraid to speak,” Hill said. 

The program is currently being developed for the Benton Harbor area and is said to be ready in 4 weeks.