Local citizens are responsible for forming local Crime Stopper programs. Civilian-based boards of directors are made up of persons from throughout the community. Board members generally oversee the program, establishing policies and providing direction as to the financial and promotional activities of the program. These Programs, along with the media and law enforcement, come together in partnership in an effort to provide crime-solving assistance to law enforcement.
Most boards meet monthly to evaluate arrests and decide on the dollar amount of rewards to be paid. The board of directors enhances the community involvement aspect, and its function is vital to the program’s success. Those directors are also responsible for fund raising and volunteer services. Programs are supported in part through tax-deductible donations from businesses, corporations, individuals, service organizations, and grants made available through the Crime Stoppers Trust Fund. Crime Stoppers has enjoyed great success with the information it has gained from its communities. Today, community and student Crime Stoppers programs reach around the world and are represented by the Nation/Regions of the United States, Canada, Caribbean, Latin America, Europe, Australia, and the South/Western Pacific.
Our organization holds several training conferences throughout the year in various locations within the state hosted by the local Crime Stoppers program in the area. These conferences provide a central location for valuable networking opportunities.Training classes are provided for board members and law enforcement coordinators on various aspects of running a Crime Stoppers program from tip handling to paying rewards and managing grants. Trainers are often called upon from the vast knowledge base within the states own seasoned program members. These members not only volunteer their time but also their experience with other members.
Training is held with the Florida Attorney General’s Office, ensuring that programs receive up to date information regarding Trust Fund application and reporting requirements. Other services provided by the organization include: An operations manual to assist new programs to establish and guide established Crime Stoppers programs; overseeing training and organizing forums for the exchange of ideas; and operating this web site with free information and links to other member programs.