Local officials say 2016 statistics show there is “continued support” for Crime Stoppers’ efforts in the region.
Last year, 679 calls and online tips were received by Crime Stoppers Guelph Wellington (CSGW), which is consistent with past years.
While not a police organization, CSGW works with Wellington County OPP and Guelph Police Service by offering an anonymous method for the public to report information that could lead to arrests.
As a result of the tips provided, 13 cases were cleared in 2016, resulting in 57 charges being laid, officials say.
“Without our tipsters, those 13 cases would still be outstanding,” said CSGW program coordinator Sarah Bowers-Peter.
“The public can definitely have an impact on criminal activity here in Guelph-Wellington.”
Since its launch in 1988, more than $10 million in personal property has been recovered and more than $27 million in illegal drugs have been seized, as a result of information provided through CSGW.
The board of directors has approved $162,555 in rewards to tip providers since it was founded – and $4,330 in 2016 alone.
To protect tip providers, CSGW does not reveal specific cases solved through the organization.
“We do everything we can to ensure our tipsters are safe, and that includes not sharing which investigations have used Crime Stoppers tips,” said Bowers-Peter.
“It is safe to say that just about every community in Wellington County and within the City of Guelph has had a case solved, thanks to a Crime Stoppers tipster.”
She added, “We have seen more recognition of the program, and awareness from the public which is gratifying.”
For more information or to book a presentation visit www.csgw.tips, which is also one of two ways to report crime.
Tip providers can also call the toll free number at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).
