MICHIGAN — Just over a year ago, OK2Say was created to encourage Michigan students to anonymously report potential crimes through a phone app. Tested in the 2014-15 school year, the app is now being advocated by Attorney General Bill Schuette.

The app was specifically created so students could report bullying, and is a response to the “culture of silence” that often leads to crimes going unreported. This “culture of silence” encourages students to keep quiet about crimes, out of fear. OK2Say hopes to reverse this culture by giving students an anonymous online outlet.

Since it was developed, the hotline has been used over 1,400 times, including 231 tips on bullying, 74 on suicide and 10 of child abuse.

“Ultimately, it’s about early intervention and prevention. When students make the courageous decision to break the code of silence and speak out against harmful behavior, they equip authorities with the information needed to respond to threats and avert tragedy,” says the OK2Say website.

Michigan residents can contact the hotline by phone, website or app, and the hotline is available 24 hours a day.

Sources: OK2Say.com