Tip Submit App lets you tip SWFL law enforcement anonymously

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FORT MYERS, Fla.- A cellphone app called Tip Submit allows you to make an anonymous tip to law enforcement.

“Honestly, it seems like a good idea,” said 17-year-old high school student Sky Shaw.

Trish Routte of Southwest Florida Crime stoppers says the tool is one of the best law enforcement has.

“We are just trying to make providing a tip, more user friendly,” said Routte.

Especially for younger, potential tipsters like Shaw, since kids are more likely to text.

Once the app is on your phone, you can choose which agency you want the tip to go to. From there, you can pick which crime you are reporting, like arson, or burglary for example.

There are even forms to fill out suspect or car description.

Fort Myers Police say they get tips daily.

“We get tips, maybe it’s a drug house that is operating in the community, forward that to our narcotics bureau, they will start an investigation,” said Lt. Victor Medico.

Law enforcement has been using the app since 2009.

“More often than not, it leads to an arrest,” said Medico.

Law enforcement can even text a tipster back for more information.

In fact, Routte communicated with a tipster during our interview. But don’t worry, like we said, it’s all anonymous.

“You are completely anonymous, given a code number. That’s the only way we identify you,” said Routte.

Fort Myers Police say, you can also text them anonymously if you don’t want to download the app.

Text to Tip works the same way. Text “FMPD and your message” to 274637 (CRIMES).

They also want to remind you, that the app doesn’t take the place of 911. That should always be used in serious emergencies.

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