Coming together for the safety and betterment of their community, Oklahoma City residents have been leaning on a crucial initiative, Crime Stoppers, as an instrumental force in crime fighting since its inception in July 1979. This program, a conduit for anonymous tips leading to the arrest of numerous criminals, is celebrated for its successful partnership between the public and law enforcement, according to the City of Oklahoma City website.
Funded by community contributions, Crime Stoppers operates on tax-deductible donations, ensuring that not a single taxpayer dollar is diverted to cover the rewards handed out. Independent volunteers, not earning any wages, manage the program, proving that the individuals dedicated to the cause fuel its success. Since the organization took root, nearly 12,000 offenders have been put behind bars through the anonymous information received by Crime Stoppers, as was reported in a recent article.
A myriad of crimes, including some as grave as murder and as predatory as rape, have seen suspects arrested and convicted thanks to Crime Stoppers. Through their anonymous tip line and online portal, the organization has fielded over 218,000 calls, which have led to over 21,000 crimes being cleared. "Murderers, drug dealers, armed robbers, rapists and burglars - Crime Stoppers paid rewards for information that helped identify or catch them," according to a statement obtained by the organization's own reporting on the City of Oklahoma City website. They further take pride in their conviction rate, where 99% of the suspects nabbed through tips have been convicted or pleaded guilty.
Over the years, Crime Stoppers has also had a significant economic impact. The tips have contributed to the recovery and return of more than $22.5 million in property to rightful owners, and the seizure of upwards of $23 million in drugs taken off Oklahoma City streets has been signaling a tough stance on crime and substance abuse in the area. For those interested in aiding this community effort, Crime Stoppers encourages contacting them at 405-235-7300 or through the Crime Stoppers website.
