New Automated Pawn Record System Paying Off for Des Moines Police

The Des Moines Police Department has made significant strides in crime prevention with the introduction of the LeadsOnline automated pawn record system. Implemented in June 2021, this innovative platform facilitates access to transaction data from thousands of businesses, empowering investigators to work more effectively across jurisdictional boundaries. Lt. Chad Steffen emphasized the positive impact of LeadsOnline, stating it enhances support for crime victims and simplifies the reporting process for local businesses. In just five months of operation, the system has been instrumental in solving crimes affecting various sectors, including schools and churches.

The Citizen Property Inventory System, ReportIt, allows residents to register their valuables, ensuring that crucial information is readily available to law enforcement. This proactive measure not only aids in recovering stolen property but also provides essential details for insurance claims. By encouraging community participation, LeadsOnline fosters a collaborative approach to crime prevention, making Des Moines a safer place. For those interested, registering items is a simple process that can significantly assist in property recovery efforts.