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Texas DPS iWatchTexas Program Sees Record Surge in School Safety Reports

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) reported a record-breaking number of school safety-related reports through its iWatchTexas program in September 2024, receiving a total of 204 reports—more than double the amount recorded in previous years. The majority of these reports involved concerning behaviors, including threats or the possibility of planned attacks on school campuses.

DPS Director Steven McCraw emphasized the importance of community vigilance, stating, “Looking out for one another—especially in the face of serious threats—is embedded in the spirit of Texas.” He noted that the increase in reports reflects the heightened awareness among Texans regarding school safety and the significance of reporting suspicious activities.

In September 2023, the DPS received only 89 school safety-related reports, and in September 2022, the number was even lower at 63. The Intelligence and Counterterrorism Division (ICT) of DPS credits the increase to improved public awareness of the iWatchTexas program and its role in fostering vigilance regarding school safety.

The iWatchTexas program serves as a community-based reporting system designed to alert authorities about suspicious activities that may indicate criminal or terroristic threats. The initiative plays a vital role in preventing potential incidents and has proven essential for law enforcement agencies statewide. Reports submitted by citizens are evaluated by trained analysts who collaborate with local, state, and federal authorities to assess potential threats and take appropriate action.

DPS encourages Texans to report any concerning behaviors, including comments about harming others, inquiries about building security, suspicious social media posts about possible school attacks, and unusual requests for sensitive information. Other behaviors to report include the purchase of materials that could be used to make weapons or bombs and taking photographs of security features without permission.

Reports can be made confidentially via the iWatchTexas app or by calling 1-844-643-2251, with submissions typically taking less than five minutes. The app is available for free on the Apple App Store and Google Play.

The iWatchTexas program is not intended for emergency situations; individuals requiring immediate assistance should call 911.

Last month, DPS released a special podcast on iWatchTexas. You can view that here.

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