A recently released iOS app by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement is designed to enlist the public’s help to track down child predators being sought for criminal prosecution. Given the name “Operation Predator,” the app is representative of an emerging trend in law enforcement toward engaging the public and putting more information at people’s fingertips.
The app displays profiles of fugitive and suspected child predators, allowing the public to submit tips, anonymously, at any time. Users can also choose to receive push notifications of wanted individuals and share the information via social media. News about arrests and prosecutions as well as updates on ICE’s operations are also offered.
While announcing the new app, John Sandweg, ICE Acting Director, stressed the importance of staying ahead of the curve. He said the following regarding the matter:
When children are being sexually abused and exploited, it's a race against the clock to rescue the child and bring the predator to justice. These investigations are one of our highest priorities, and in today's world, we need to be technologically savvy and innovative in our approach.
…hopeful that this app will encourage them to submit tips about suspects and to learn more about our work investigating child exploitation crimes.
Source: ICE, iTunes
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