US Recyclers teams up with law enforcement network to expand fight against materials theft

UNITED STATES May 24 2017 3:26 PM

NEW YORK (Scrap Register): The Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries (ISRI) has announced a partnership with the Regional Information Sharing Systems (RISS) to make ScrapTheftAlert.com available through the RISS network. 

The agreement provides access to the alert system to the more than 117,000 law enforcement officers in almost 9,000 agencies that are members of RISS.

“ScrapTheftAlert.com was created by the recycling industry as a way of assisting law enforcement in solving crimes involving materials theft,” said Robin Wiener, president of ISRI. 

“Since its inception, it has become a successful tool, not only in apprehending criminals, but as a way of sharing valuable intelligence related to crimes across jurisdiction. We are extremely pleased that this partnership will further strengthen the relationship between recyclers and law enforcement and provide needed resources to combat materials theft,” Wiener added.

ScrapTheftAlert.com is a free online alert system that allows registered users to send broadcast email alerts out to 100 mile radius of a theft (the area can be expanded if needed). Detailed descriptions and photos can be uploaded so nearby recycling facilities can be on the lookout for stolen materials. 

In addition, it contains enhanced search features for vetted law enforcement officials. Since its launch in 2008, there have been more than 18,500 alerts issued by more than 21,000 active users. The system has helped recover more than $2.1 million in property.

“Through the use of RISS technology and a great partnership with ISRI, we are able to assist in the expanded access to ScrapTheftAlert.com to the nation's law enforcement. We are pleased and proud to be a part of this important project,” said Chairman of the RISS Director's Association and Executive Director of the New England State Police Information Network (NESPIN) Donald Kennedy.

RISS receives funding from Congress and is administered by the U.S. Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Assistance. It provides investigative and intelligence support services and information sharing networks to thousands of local, state, federal, and tribal criminal justice agencies. It consists of six regional centers and the RISS Technology Support Center.