On Thursday, March 5, 2009, at 1:15 p.m., the Sacramento Police Department, Crime Alert, and Comcast will hold a press conference at police headquarters (5770 Freeport Boulevard).

The purpose of this press conference is to announce and demonstrate several new features that have been added to the Crime Alert Program as well as a free new service being offered by Comcast on Demand to its digital cable customers.

The Crime Alert Program is designed to assist law enforcement in the identification of criminal suspects and to reward individuals providing information leading to the arrest of criminals at-large. Now it will be easier for people who want to help. In addition to the traditional way of calling in, the public can now text message or use the Internet to give a crime alert tip anonymously.

Comcast Digital Cable customers in Sacramento and surrounding areas will now be able to view criminal profiles any time of the day or night. This service will include information on how viewers with knowledge about the profiled individuals can contact the police anonymously. “This is another way Comcast is using technology to make a positive difference,” said Marty Robinson, Area Vice President and General Manager, Comcast Cable Sacramento.

“We’re pleased to have Comcast join us in our crime fighting efforts by offering this unique service to its viewers, and excited about the new technology that Crime Alert will be implementing to obtain more tips,” said Police Chief Rick Braziel.

Additional details about these new features and services will be discussed and demonstrated at the press conference. Please join us then. Media is invited to attend and encouraged to arrive by 1:00 p.m.