Rural Crime Watch targeting crime with computer callouts

The South Cariboo Rural Crime Watch (RCW) has a computer phone fan-out warning system that is aimed at putting a crimp in crime. The computer keeps RCW members’ phone numbers, and when a crime occurs the “investigating” member records a message explaining the situation. The computer then calls everyone on the list and provides the information. RCW spokesperson Jon McCormick notes that one weekend they produced a fan-out warning members of a phone/credit card scam that asked for a donation to a local children’s charity. By using the fan-out system, he adds, RCW was able to reach 650 people with the information. He notes members include ranchers, farmers, resort owners, businesses and homeowners, and they all have an interest in protecting their investments...more