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1. What is it?

The Wisconsin Crime Alerts Network is another tool Law Enforcement can use to notify the public and businesses about crime and trends. Minnesota currently has the program and has been using it successfully for 16 years. It is estimated Minnesota solves an average of 1 crime a day using the system. The WI system is new and was rolled out in October. Businesses and individuals pay $12 per year to be part of the system and there is no cost to tax payers.

2. What is it used for?

The WI Crime Alerts Network links Law Enforcement with citizens and business in specified area (County, Region or Statewide) to utilize the public’s assistance in locating fugitives, missing and endangered adults and for crime prevention. One example of its use is the hotel clerk who recognized a Wisconsin father wanted for kidnapping his 4 children when the suspect attempted to check into a hotel in Minnesota. The suspect intended on killing the children but was arrested before he could. Another example was the pharmacist who recognizes a suspect who is wanted for prescription fraud.

3. What it is not used for?

The Wisconsin Crime Alerts Network is not used for:
- Amber Alerts
- Individual/single thefts
- Run-away (unless extenuating circumstances)

4. Who benefits?

Law Enforcement and the community benefit from the Wisconsin Crime Alerts Network. The Cottage Grove Police Department encourages you to take the time to learn about the Wisconsin Crime Alert Network and how Wisconsin and you can benefit from this new law enforcement tool.