Everett PD launches SPIDR, a new tool for non-violent crime victims

Everett Police are launching a new piece of technology Tuesday, May 26, that they say will make communication with the community far more efficient. If someone calls 911 for a non-urgent, non-violent crime, the SPIDR Tech platform will send automated text and e-mail messages to the victims with estimated response times.

“We’re really excited to be able to provide our community with some really cutting-edge technology in the form of SPIDR,” Lieutenant Robert Goetz told KIRO Radio.

SPIDR will also provide updates on the investigations to victims, advise them of important facts in the case, and notify them of any next steps. For example, if a suspect is arrested in a non-violent crime, the system will notify the victim about the arrest, Goetz explained. And if any follow-up information is needed, the system can send a notification to the victim for assistance in the investigation.

According to the Everett PD’s news release, departments using this technology have seen a 40% decrease in incoming administrative calls.

The system can also be used to send paperwork to victims that officers usually would have to deliver in person. Goetz said this function will help keep their officers on the streets.

“Typically, we would have an officer go out and have a second statement form filled out,” he said. “This is going to allow us to automate that process and be much more efficient, and allowing us to keep officers on the street.”

SPIDR will also send out a short, mobile survey to see how officers are performing their duties, which will help guide the department’s decision making and improve customer service.

“Really, we are there to serve our citizens, who ultimately might be … considered our customers,” Goetz said. “So customer feedback is very important to make sure that we are doing the best job we can do for our community.”

This system does not apply to violent crimes as there will always be an immediate response to those incidents.

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Everett PD is the first agency in Snohomish County to use SPIDR Tech, but it will be available to other law enforcement agencies in the coming months. SPIDR Tech is a California based company founded by two police officers who saw an opportunity to improve the standard of customer service for law enforcement agencies.

The KIRO Radio Newsdesk contributed to this report.

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