(Here’s the top of a story about how the social networking site Facebook helped Auburn, Maine, police make an arrest in a theft. I’m somewhat conflicted on this. On one hand, it is definitely great that the community was involved. We need to be more involved. But … I am somewhat uncomfortable. Will the next step be having neighbors spying on neighbors? I don’ know. – KM)
Submitted by Sun Journal on Fri, 01/08/2010 – 10:05
Staff Report
AUBURN, Maine — Their fans on the social networking site Facebook are being credited by the Auburn Police for helping the department solve another crime.
Fan tips made it possible to summons a theft suspect within 24 hours of the crime, Deputy Police Chief Jason Moen said in a prepared statement Friday.
“Facebook is a ‘force multiplier’ for us,” Moen said in a prepared statement. “It is turning out to be a valuable tool for law enforcement. Instead of knocking on one door at a time, our staff can reach out to our entire community – and beyond – to gather information that can help solve a crime.”
Here’s a link to the rest of the story.
My name is Keith Michaud and this is “Letters From Away,” a blog written by a Mainer living outside the comfortable and sane confines of New England. The blog is intended for Mainers, whether they live in the Pine Tree State or beyond, and for anyone who has loved ’em, been baffled by ’em or both. Ayuh, I am “from away.” Worse still, I live on the Left Coast – in California. Enjoy! Or not. Your choice.
Letters From Away 