Local leaders set up text alert system after Murphy release

COMMUNITY leaders in west Wicklow are setting up a crime text alert system linking several towns and involving gardaí in the wake of the release of local convicted sex offender Larry Murphy.

Vigilant neighbours will be able to warn communities of suspicious individuals or report crimes in progress through the mobile phone-led initiative.

The text-alert system will take in communities in a 20-mile radius around the rural village of Grangecon, Murphy’s former home.