How commonplace has text messaging become in the United States? Ask St. Joseph County Police Sgt. Regis Thimons:

"Everybody knows text messaging is the communication system nowadays," said St. Joseph County police Sgt. Regis Thimons.

That's why local police and the Drug Free Community Council want to use it to their advantage.

So just what is the St. Joseph County Police Department up to?

The text messaging program would allow anyone to send text messages to police about local stores selling alcohol to kids who aren't 21, and parties where underage kids are drinking.

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Police say the tips will be anonymous.

"We plan initially no follow up calls to the text or texter," explained Sgt. Thimons. "Our information we receive will be only as a tip to make sure a party doesn't occur."

However, the phone number could show up on court documents if charges are filed. 

Police plan to launch the new text message program before prom season begins. A $6,000 SUDS grant from the Drug Free Community Council is making it happen. SUDS stands for Stop Underage Drinking and Sales. That's something local police and community leaders say is a huge problem.

Read more at WSBT