“So far we have received great feedback from our app users,” said Webster County Chief Deputy Derek Christie. “We are averaging around 45,000 touches or clicks per week, so of the 2,000 users who have downloaded the app, they are clicking around 200 times each week.”

The app, simply titled Webster County Sheriff, is free to download from the App Store and includes jail information, inmate search, a form to submit a tip, sex offender listings, weapon permit information, and even county job listings.

“The biggest benefit is a lot of Sheriff’s Office and inmate information is now available at the touch of a button rather than a phone call or trip to the Law Enforcement Center,” said Christie. “Through the app, victims can request a notification of an inmate’s release status which, as you can imagine, aids in their safety. The app also allows users to search inmates, provide inmate commissary and phone funding, bond information, and more.”

Since becoming available to the public in November, Christie said the Sheriff’s Office has received tips through the app, though none have specifically assisted in an active investigation.

“The great feature of Submit A Tip is that they can be sent anonymously without a name, email or phone number attached,” said Christie.

The app was developed by the Sheriff App company at no cost to the department or the county. Moving forward, it will be funded by inmate commissary money.

“Our overall goal with the app is to streamline information and processes ensuring we are reaching the public through all possible means, keeping Webster County safe and informed,” said Christie.