New way to offer tips to U.S. Marshals

New way to offer tips to Marshals

March 25, 2012 8:03 AM
THE MONITOR

McALLEN — The U.S. Marshals Service has unveiled a new way for the public to provide anonymous information.

The U.S. Marshals Gulf Coast Violent Offenders and Fugitive Task Force announced the ability to receive anonymous information via text messages and via Web tips.

Previously, tipsters had to call their nearest USMS office or the toll-free number at 800-336-0102.

Now, tipsters can send a tip by texting the keyword GULFCOAST followed by the information to TIP411 (847411).

According to information released by the agency, investigators can send a text message back to the tipster asking for additional information but the tipster has the option to terminate the communication at any time.

Tipsters can also go to the task force’s website at U.S. Marshals Service,* Southern District of Texas and look at pictures of wanted fugitives and submit anonymous tips through there.

“This new tool provides the public with another method of delivering valuable information to our task force to utilize when pursuing these wanted violent fugitives,” said U.S. Marshal Elizabeth Saenz. “The ultimate goal is to ensure the safety of the community.”

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