SHALIMAR — The Okaloosa County Sheriff's Office has launched a new, electronic crime-fighting and public information tool that focuses on the type of citizen involvement linked to the successful Emerald Coast Crime Stoppers program.
The first "Community Pro-Tektor" kiosk is now operational at the Driver's License bureau of the Okaloosa County Tax Collector's Office in Shalimar.
The electronic booth offers three zones on the board that can feature wanted criminals, missing people, public service announcements, crime prevention tips, and even weather or public safety alerts.
The OCSO purchased 10 kiosks using money from seized funds. Because they are portable, they can be transported to community events and functions as well.
"These kiosks have a wonderful multiplier effect. By putting them in areas with a lot of foot traffic, we can get more eyes on important crime prevention information and help find more wanted fugitives to get them off our streets," Okaloosa Sheriff Larry Ashley said.
"This is the type of partnership that can really pay off, by not only helping inform citizens, but also bolstering their ability to provide the type of input that helps make our county safer."
Additional kiosks will be located at area businesses, at other Tax Collector offices in Niceville, Crestview and Destin, and the courthouse extension in South Okaloosa County.
This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Okaloosa sheriff's office launches electronic crime-fighting tool (VIDEO)