Newswatch

CrimeStoppers takes tips via text

People who want to share anonymous tips on criminal activity can now reach CrimeStoppers Honolulu by sending text messages with their cell phones.

Using TipSoft Text Tips technology developed by Anderson Software, information can be sent and responded to with complete anonymity, CrimeStoppers said.

Texters wishing to submit an anonymous tip can do so by texting "CS808" plus your message to 274637, or CRIMES.

TipSoft allows informants to remain anonymous by encrypting text messages and routing them through several secure servers, thus shielding the identity of informants. The technology also allows police to respond to text messages to an informant’s cell phone without knowing the person’s identity.

Tipsters may also still provide information anonymously at 955-8300 or the Honolulu CrimeStoppers website, www.tipsubmit.com/WebTips.aspx?AgencyID=606.

CrimeStoppers Sgt. Kim Buffett said the ability to submit anonymous tips via the website has been available for about two years.

Blackout hits large areas of Big Island

Big Island residents were hit with a "fairly widespread" blackout last night in Waikoloa and Hilo, a Hawaiian Electric Co. spokeswoman said.

Big Island police said the outage began shortly before 9 p.m. and was rolling across the island.

Jan Miller, HECO spokeswoman, said the blackout was not islandwide and that some areas were not affected. She said it began around 8:45 p.m. and that all areas had power back by 9:40 p.m.

She said most customers were getting power back within 10 minutes.

Coming up

At Ala Moana Center on Tuesday, the Faith Action Community Equity group will kick off a petition drive calling for Mayor Mufi Hannemann to reconsider the recent bus fare increase that took effect Thursday.

Group members will ask bus riders to sign the petition. People also can sign the petition online at www.ipetitions.com/petition/unfareincrease.