iWatch LA app aimed at preventing terrorism extends to LA County

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- The Los Angeles Police Department and the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department have teamed up to extend the iWatch LA app, a community terrorism reporting initiative.

The app, which allows the public to report suspicious behavior in their neighborhoods, has now been extended to include all of Los Angeles County.

"It is really incumbent on all of us as residents of Los Angeles County, as residents of this great nation, to take a stand and be able to step up," Los Angeles County Sheriff Jim McDonnell said. "We can't be everywhere, but the public is everywhere."

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The program has also seen some controversy, including back in July when critics argued members of the black community were being disproportionately reported and that officers were keeping secret files on people who were only doing normal day-to-day activities.

Los Angeles Police Chief Charlie Beck said the claims of secret files were not true.

Program operators insisted they were only seeking tips on behavior, not individuals.

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With the new partnership, residents can expect to see advertising for the program throughout Los Angeles County, particularly for the iWatch LA app on mobile devices. For more information, visit lapdonline.org/iwatchla.