The Mesa Police Department is rolling out a new tool aimed at improving transparency and communication with the public. Through a partnership with Versaterm’s CommunityConnect, callers to 911 or the non-emergency number can now receive automated status updates via text or email following their request for police assistance.
This system delivers real-time notifications such as confirmation of the service call, potential delays in officer response, updates when arrests are made, and how the case was resolved.
Enhancing Public Trust with Technology
CommunityConnect was designed by former law enforcement professionals to help departments build trust with residents through timely communication. Now, Mesa is using it to ensure those seeking help feel more informed throughout the process.
Key features include:
- Notifications sent only to those calling from a cell phone to 911 or the non-emergency line at (480) 644-2211
- Texts arrive from (480) 637-5232
- Spanish-language options are available via a link in the message
A Look at the Numbers
In 2024, the Mesa Police Department responded to over 280,000 service calls, underscoring the need for efficient and scalable communication tools. Assistant Chief Jeff Cutler notes that CommunityConnect helps the department share updates and collect caller feedback more effectively.
Citizen Feedback Builds Future Improvements
Along with status alerts, callers will be invited to complete a brief survey on their experience. This feedback loop allows the department to evaluate officer performance and strengthen community relations through better-informed service.
