It was the best of times for Near North Crime Stoppers, but the worst of times for local crooks.
The crime-fighting organization got a record 878 new tips in 2019 and over 69 per cent of all tips received were submitted anonymously via Webtips.
Board Chairman, Chad Evans, says the number one issue year-after-year is still drug-related criminal activity.
‘Board statistics show that, since inception in 1988, over $51.7 million in illegal drugs have been recovered by police, thanks to anonymous tips received through Near North Crime Stoppers’.
NNCS Police coordinator, Jean Lemieux, points out that tips received have led police to recover a substantial amount of illegal drugs and stolen property this past year. Anonymous information also led to the arrest of 23 people in 2019, bringing the total number to 1,694 since 1988.
NNCS Executive Director, Tracy Johnston, says it's definitely making an impact.
‘The non-profit organization is one of 1,200 programs in 20 countries around the world that have received information leading to the recovery of more than $6.9 billion worth of stolen property and seized drugs. ‘Crime Stoppers makes the world a safer place by helping to solve a crime somewhere in the world, every 14 minutes, of every day."
January is Crime Stoppers month around the globe and this year's theme is 'Creating Partnerships Against Crime'
The foundation of Crime Stoppers is the partnership between the community, law enforcement and media.
A key is that tipsters remain anonymous.
- You will not be required to reveal your name
- You will not have to make a police statement
- You will not appear in court
- Your call will not be recorded
- Your call or online form will not be traced
Anyone with information about any criminal activity can 'Say it Here' by calling 476-TIPS (8477) or 1-800-222- TIPS (8477). The secure, encrypted online tip form is also available 24 hours a day, seven days a week at nearnorthcrimestoppers.com
