NSW Police Force Community Portal another option for Albury residents

The NSW Police Force Community Portal allows victims to lodge complaints about non-urgent crimes online. People can notify police of lost property, intentional damage, graffiti and theft via any device with an internet connection.

Pictures, videos, documents and audio can be uploaded to the site.

Albury Inspector David Cottee said a messaging system would provide two-way communication.

“Basically we are moving with technology and giving people another option to engage with NSW police, it has been in development for a while,” he said.

“While they are doing that, they can have real-time messaging with someone who is working.

“The more we can get real-time reporting the greater our intelligence and ability to respond to those issues.

“Given most people carry smart phones, they can capture crime and it is another way to gather evidence.

“People can take photos of damage for example, or may have captured something that relates to an offence.

“It could be something as simple as you go to pick up your car and it has been broken into, you may see foot print or boot print on door.

“You can take a photo in case it rains and washes the evidence away.”

The portal launched two weeks ago and is linked with MyServiceNSW.

If a complaint doesn't fit the non-urgent criteria, users will be encouraged to contact police directly.

NSW Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione said it would not replace the option for people to report crimes in person or on the phone, but was another avenue.

“The platform is easy to use – providing the user with step-by-step instructions – and can be accessed via a range of devices anywhere with an internet connection,” he said.

“The information you provide is strictly confidential and is stored securely as you make your way through the reporting process.”

For more information, visit police.nsw.gov.au/community_portal.