HARRISONBURG, Va. (ROCKTOWN NOW) – The Harrisonburg Police Department has launched a new anonymous tip system to help residents connect with the department, as well as find information, view alerts and submit anonymous tips from their smartphone or online.

The new Harrisonburg PD app, developed by ‘tip411′ enables the public to share an anonymous tip with police and lets officers respond to create a two-way conversation. In a news release, HPD Interim Chief Rod Pollard said the department’s success lies with its connection to the community.

“Our new tip411 system will allow us to continue delivering exceptional police services that enable the safety, security, and well-being of all by promoting a stronger partnership with our community members,” Pollard said.

According to HPD Lieutenant Chris Monahan, the new tip411’ system is similar to Crime Solvers or Crime Stoppers but is more comprehensive.

“This tool is far more comprehensive and allows us to have direct dialogue with the person submitting the tip,” Monahan said. “So, an individual might send out information in reference to a wanted individual, and someone might respond to that with: ‘hey, I think I might know that person or I might have seen that person,’ and we can respond directly to that tipster and have some dialogue.”

Monohan encourages folks to download the free Harrisonburg PD app is available for free download via the Google Play Store, iTunes App Store, or on the department’s website.