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Crime Mapping is a website that "automatically retrieves data from a records management system," and tracks and maps the information for the public to view, explains KTLA. The San Gabriel Police Department has joined with about two dozen California law enforcement agencies to make use of the Google-powered mapping site so that are residents "can now track crime trends in their neighborhoods." The service for San Gabriel launched today, and marks the first time a police department within Los Angeles County is making use of the service, which "requires no man-hours from police."
Those interested in tracking crime in the area will be referred to the site from the SGPD's homepage, and "can also request e-mail notifications alerting them to recently reported crimes." Authorities believe that by providing this information in this format they can empower residents to be more vigilant, or possibly "decide to form neighborhood watch groups," when they become aware of particular crime trends.