Some people find the cloak of anonymity comforting. A program utilized by the University of Southern Maine Police Department now allows such people to report crimes while remaining unrecognized.
The “Silent Witness” Program can be accessed via the USM Police homepage on the World Wide Web. By filling out a simple form electronically, anyone can report suspicious or criminal behavior directly to the police. The reports are promptly reviewed.
Detective Sergeant Ron Sandion of the USM Police encouraged more students to use the program when necessary. He said the program as an avenue for people to contact the police about matters they may not be comfortable reporting personally.
The Silent Witness Program has been in operation for about a year and a half. It hasn’t received non-stop use by students, but has been beneficial in giving leads to hit and run car accidents and other suspicious behavior.
Such programs are a growing trend among America’s universities. Using the Internet, it is possible to find similar programs at almost every major university, including the University of Maine at Orono.
Students on the Gorham campus have mixed reviews about the program. A select few are skeptical about the need for such a program. “I don’t think that anybody would use it just because people may not think to report anything other than major, obvious crimes.” said Mary Guzik, a junior communications major living on the Gorham campus.
Other students saw the possible benefits of such a program.
“I think it is a good idea in that if you have a personal tie to people committing crimes,” said Kristen White, an art major and third year resident. Another student, Justin Laing environmental sciences major had a positive outlook on the program.
“I think it benefits the police department. It gives them the benefits and clues they need. It seems to be a good idea.” said the sophomore. “I guess it gives them certain leads and information to close cases committed in the past and maybe even prevent certain crimes in the future.”
Many students felt that while the program may not receive much use, it is good to know the option is there. According to police, they would like to see the program used more. Awareness of the program may heighten use and help to make the USM campuses a safer place for everyone. The Silent Witness Program can be accessed easily through the USM police Web page at http://www.usm.maine.edu/police.