Sheriff hopes to launch new app for phones

A Neshoba SO app that aims to increase connectivity and transparency between the Sheriff’s Office and the public, among other features, is being rolled out.

“This just adds another link between the department and the public,” said Sheriff Eric Clark.

The app is being developed by the company Sheriff App for Android and iPhones. 

Clark said the app will cost $11,000 to build and will cost the department about $4,000 annually.

Clark said he has everything in place and is hoping to get the go-ahead to purchase the app from the Nehsoba County Board of Supervisors soon. Clark said until then he will not know how long the rollout will take.

Funds for the app are coming from a $15,000 grant he received from Ally Telecom.

The app will allow citizens to check the sex offender registry, wanted individuals, and resources for victims of crimes as well as submit tips. 

Clark said the app will allow him to send out push notifications for road closures, wrecks, and weather notifications. App users will also have the ability to submit complaints or compliments related to encounters with deputies.

The app will also allow people to access the inmate roster at the Nehsoba County Jail and allow people to set up visitations and give commissary money to inmates.

Finally, the app will allow the Sheriff’s Office to create a voluntary registry of home and business owners who have security cameras in Neshoba County. Clark said the registry will be entirely voluntary but noted it will give his department people to contact who may have footage of an incident, suspicious vehicle, or suspect.

Clark said he has received endorsements for the app and service from Sheriff Randy Atkinson in neighboring Leake County as well as others.