Princeton residents can now keep up to date on crime in their neighborhoods, examining crime trends right along with police officials.

The Princeton Police Department (PPD) is presenting an online crime map called RAIDS Online (www.raidsonline.com) that maps and analyzes crime data, informs Princeton citizens of crimes in their area, and allows the police to quickly alert the public as crimes occur.

BAIR Analytics, a LexisNexis company, has offered RAIDS Online and the RAIDS Online Mobile app free to law enforcement agencies that wish to participate “to help law enforcement in these tough economic times.”

“I think this is the future of how citizens are kept up to date on crimes,” PPD Chief Nick Sutter stated. RAIDS Online “will raise citizens’ awareness. It’s the best way to get the message out in terms of safety. People in the community will communicate with neighbors and make sure the doors are locked, the lights are on and information is shared. We want to protect the safety of our community.”

Mr. Sutter described the new technology as “a great service to the community. Citizens can get real time information on all reported crimes in Princeton.” RAIDS Online helps to fulfill an element of the PPD strategic plan, which calls for increased community involvement and transparency.

The online program will allow Princeton residents to view a map which includes recent crimes in their area and basic information about the incidents, including the type of crime, location, date, and time. They can also sign up for neighborhood watch reports and submit anonymous tips about crimes.

The RAIDS Online Mobile app is available for free at the App Store.

The Princeton crime map can be accessed from the Crime Mapping link on the PPD website at www.princetonnj.gov/police/RAIDS.html, or directly on the RAIDS Online website at www.raidsonline.com or through the PPD Facebook page at www.facebook.com/princetontwppolice.