Pekin police say social media has helped reduce crime

PEKIN, Ill. (AP) - The Pekin Police Department says its use of social media is helping to fight crime.

The Pekin Daily Times (http://bit.ly/1ALvSdr ) reports the department has been using its Facebook page since mid-2013 to inform residents of suspects who have been arrested and those they're still searching for. Residents are able to submit anonymous tips and receive text alerts through the department's Facebook page.

Spokesman Mike Eeten says the account is at least partially responsible for a 22 percent decrease in crime between 2013 and 2014. He also credits other community outlets, such as neighborhood watch groups, with helping to reduce crime in the city.

Eeten says public awareness and involvement against crime cause residents to be more watchful of what's happening around them.

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Information from: Pekin Daily Times, http://www.pekintimes.com