History of Crime Stoppers

History of Crime Stoppers
  • Crime Stoppers is a community-based organization dedicated to solving and preventing serious crime in partnership with citizens, media, law enforcement, and the criminal justice system in the greater Houston area.
  • Started in 1976 in Albuquerque, NM, brought to Houston in 1981 by members of The Exchange Club of Houston, a Community Service organization.
  • Quickly became world leader in helping law enforcement solve felony crimes
  • Began Safe School Program unofficially in 1997, formally in 1999
How Does Crime Stoppers Work?
  • 10 officers answer tip hot line
  • Callers w/credible information given a code number
  • Code number used to maintain anonymity and pick up cash reward when due
  • Officer confirms info, forwards it to case officer.  If info helps bring arrest and charging of suspect(s), caller is due a reward
  • Reward picked up at local bank drive-through using code number
The Safe School Program
  • Begun Informally in 1997, formally in 1999
  • Serving over 200 middle & high schools in Harris County
  • Formal training provided for students, administrators, school officers
  • Gives students power to keep their campus safe by providing an anonymous avenue for reporting serious crimes
  • Focus is on guns, knives, other dangerous weapons, prevention of gang activity, notification of possible terroristic activities such as bomb threats and threats against other students or school personnel
How is Crime Stoppers Funded?
  • Crime Stoppers is a non profit 501©(3) organization.
  • Operation income is from individual/corporate membership, fund raising events such as the gala and golf tournament, and the annual members meeting
  • Safe School Program currently funded through foundation donations and state grant funds
  • State funding and the Harris County criminal justice system support the rewards program
How Can Crime Stoppers Work For Me?

  • I can help solve a crime without giving my name

  • I can keep my neighborhood and my family safer from Child predators and other criminals

  • I can earn cash rewards for helping police get the criminals off the streets

  • I can join Crime Stoppers today, and make my contribution count toward the safety of my family and my neighbors