MEMPHIS, TN (abc24.com) - Three dozen crooks were identified via the internet and rounded up by Shelby County deputies. Investigators have been using Facebook and a new website called
IDThisPerson.com. Deputies have only used it for three weeks and tips have been pouring in. Now investigators have faces and names which are helping them to get the criminals behind bars.
"Sometimes it's difficult to get media coverage on all the crimes that we have surveillance photos for," says Detective Mickey Keaton from the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office.
That's why Shelby County deputies came up with using the “ID This Person” website. Thanks to tips, they were able to put a name to Larry Boyd. He's wanted in connection to several thefts at area Cracker Barrels.
"He has two warrants for his arrest, both for theft and property," says Detective Keaton.
The internet is becoming a major resource for law enforcement.
"We're experiencing things we've never had at our disposal before. Using the web in a positive way to identify these suspects is new technology to us,” Keaton tells abc24.com.
The sheriff's office started using Facebook in July 2010, and on October 20, 2011, began using “ID This Person.”
"Between those two sites we've identified 36 unknown suspects,” Detective Keaton says. “It's very exciting, and I can't wait to see what the future holds."
People who go to the site and help identify suspects can receive a $25 gift card. Tipsters can remain anonymous. You can also leave tips for the Shelby County Sheriff's Office using Facebook and Twitter.
