Calera Police urge residents to download sex offender tracking app

The Calera Police Department is promoting the Offender Watch app, which helps residents track registered sex offenders and remain informed about their presence in the community. This app provides real-time updates, allowing users to view the locations of offenders and receive notifications if one moves nearby.

In addition to tracking offenders, Offender Watch allows citizens to submit tips directly to law enforcement regarding potential violations. Detective Jacob Reach emphasizes the app’s purpose: to empower the public with knowledge so they can ensure their children's safety. If residents suspect an offender is not residing at their registered address, they can report it through the app, enabling law enforcement to take necessary actions.

Research indicates that many sex offenders reoffend, highlighting the importance of tools like Offender Watch in preventing further incidents. "The more people who have access to this information, the better we can prevent offenders from reoffending," Reach noted, stressing the app's role in enhancing community safety.

The app’s utility extends beyond local searches, allowing users to look up offenders in different areas by ZIP code. This feature is particularly beneficial for travelers or those concerned about family members living elsewhere. Reach mentioned that this capability broadens the community’s ability to monitor offenders, supporting proactive measures.

Residents can download Offender Watch via their app store or access it through the Calera Police Department's website. The app not only enables tip submissions and offender identification but also has a notification system for alerting the U.S. Marshals Task Force about wanted offenders, further enhancing public safety efforts.