Travis CO Sheriff Working with Trapster App

(AUSTIN,TX)- A popular iPhone application that warns drivers of speed traps and red light cameras is now getting help from the Travis County Sheriff's Office.

Since 2007, 4 million Trapster users have watched out for one another, especially from deputies like Tom Carpenter who wait on the side of the road with a laser gun in hand, clocking drivers who speed by.

"If I can get my compliance with out writing a ticket-- I've done my job," said Carpenter.

He's now logged on to the very same app that's ratted-out his location for years. He's known on Trapster as TCMotor18. His alliance with the speed trap app has caught the attention of Trapster's creator and owner Pete Tenereillo. He saw our FOX 7 News report that featured Carpenter.

"It was absolutely amazing for us," said Tenereillo. "This is an information distribution system. You can only catch one person at a time with the laser , but you can inform everybody on the road."

So Tuesday afternoon, Tenereillo flew in to Austin to meet Carpenter and get the entire department on board, giving access to Trapster like never before.

"We're setting them up as moderators so they can enter information. Everything from red light cameras and laser enforcement points to dangerous intersections- road closures," said Tenereillo.

So far, users add most of that data to Trapster. The app relies on a rating system that ranks the data for accuracy, but now deputies will give instant credibility, their data marked with the Sheriff's shield.

"It's something that can be used, similar to your GPS on your car. You can put it there, turn it on and then you don't have to touch it again," said Tenereillo.

But Deputy Carpenter warns using the app, in hand while driving in Austin, could get you in trouble. Texting or using apps while driving is a violation of Austin's newest law, something Trapster can't help you with.

The good thing about Trapster is that you don't have to look at the map while driving. There are voice commands that warn you when speed traps or red light cameras are ahead. Trapster is a free app on the iPhone.