WALB is working to produce a video for this story. In the meantime, we encourage you to watch our livestream.

ALBANY, Ga. (WALB) — The Albany Police Department unveiled a new campaign Monday, Feb. 16, aimed at encouraging residents to download the department’s mobile app for real-time updates.

During a Media Monday briefing, APD Chief Michael Persley said the app is the primary way for the department to share information directly with the public.

The app provides push notifications for critical updates, including “Be On the Lookout” alerts (BOLOs), media releases and community announcements.

Persley said the app offers residents “a reliable way to stay connected without relying on rumors or secondhand information that may be found on social media.”

He said the department is taking a proactive approach by pushing information directly to residents instead of requiring them to search for updates across multiple platforms.

Persley also reemphasized the department’s anonymous tip line, which is often used to help identify individuals during ongoing investigations.

“We won’t do any reverse calling and reverse checking,” Persley said. “We just want the information, and we’ll go from there.”

He clarified that the app is meant to provide information, not replace emergency response services.

“When you talk about a call for service, that doesn’t replace the police officers showing up,” Persley said.

For emergencies or to request police services, residents should continue to:

• Call 911 for emergencies.
• Call 431-2100 or 431-2132 to reach Albany Police dispatch directly.

To download the APD mobile app, visit the Apple App Store or Google Play.

Have a news tip or see an error that needs correction? Let us know. Please include the article’s headline in your message.

To stay up to date on all the latest news as it develops, follow WALB on Facebook and X (Twitter). For more South Georgia news, download the WALB News app from the Apple Store or Google Play.

Copyright 2026 WALB. All rights reserved.