Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) customers will be able to connect to DART Police via text message, as of Friday, April 6. It’s as simple as sending a short message with the keyword dartpolice to 41411.
The newest tool by DART Police is not meant to replace emergency calls, but instead assist crime fighting by transit customers that are hearing impaired, do not wish to make a phone call if they see a crime or something else that makes them uncomfortable while on DART. It is also expected texting will prove popular with customers who simply prefer texting over talking.
The text number, 41411, is the same one used by DART customers to find the next departure and arrival times for buses and trains at their stop or station. The only difference with the police text service is customers must start the message with the keyword dartpolice to make sure it is delivered to a DART Police dispatcher. The dispatcher will read it, gather more information and, if needed, send an officer. Including details in the message about their route/rail line, location and direction of travel in their initial text helps the dispatcher assist the customer more quickly.
No images or videos will be accepted and while there is no charge for this new service, standard data and text messaging rates may apply.
DART hopes this new crime reporting tool will help provide more leads as well as direct emergency services in a more timely fashion to where they are needed most.
