How it Works

Our Approach

CrimeStoppers represents a vital three-part partnership committed to solving crime. We rely on seamless cooperation between law enforcement, the media, and the general community to facilitate the crucial flow of information about criminal activities and individuals.

The Phone Tip Line

Our local CrimeStoppers tip line is equipped with a secure, standalone phone system that does not provide caller ID, and all conversations are strictly confidential and not recorded. Upon receiving a call, our CrimeStoppers Coordinator completes a detailed tip report, conducts initial verification, and then promptly relays the information to the appropriate investigating officer. We accept calls concerning any publicized request for information, such as our "Crime of the Week," or any other criminal activity the caller has knowledge of.

By guaranteeing complete anonymity, CrimeStoppers empowers individuals to share vital information without fear of retribution. Furthermore, by offering substantial cash rewards for information that leads to an indictment or arrest, our program effectively incentivizes those who might otherwise be reluctant to come forward.

Structure and Funding of CrimeStoppers

CrimeStoppers is proudly organized as a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization. A dedicated civilian community board of directors oversees all financial and promotional activities of the program. This board is instrumental in fostering strong community involvement, a function vital to our continued success.

CrimeStoppers is funded entirely by private donations and community fundraising efforts. NO TAX DOLLARS are involved. All reward money paid out by our program originates from the generous fundraising and contributions of concerned citizens and local businesses.

Our Central Alabama community board of directors meets monthly to evaluate arrests and determine reward amounts, which can be up to $5,000. Rewards are then discreetly distributed to eligible tipsters. While callers are eligible for rewards up to $5,000, we proudly note that many choose not to collect, demonstrating their commitment to community safety.

Does CrimeStoppers Work?

The answer is "yes." Since the inception of CrimeStoppers, we have received countless tips leading to thousands of arrests and the recovery of substantial amounts of stolen property and illicit funds. Information provided has directly contributed to solving cases involving murder, robbery, rape, assaults, and various drug and firearm offenses.

While the success of CrimeStoppers cannot be solely measured by statistics, our program yields several other profound benefits for the community:

Increased community awareness of existing crime problems.
Fostering a greater willingness within the community to actively combat crime when provided with the opportunity and motivation.
Significantly improved relationships and collaboration among law enforcement, the media, and the community.

CrimeStoppers is a proven and enduring asset to our region. It has been widely embraced by law enforcement as a valid and highly effective investigative tool. Furthermore, the public, through its overwhelming response and participation, has accepted CrimeStoppers as a trusted and accessible alternative to traditional methods of reporting criminal activity anonymously.