How the Program Works

• Anonymous Tips: Community members can report information about crimes or suspicious activity through the Crime Stoppers hotline or the secure online p3 Tips system. Callers are never asked to reveal their identity, and all information is handled with the highest degree of confidentiality.

• Eligibility for Rewards: Individuals who provide information that directly leads to an arrest or a grand jury indictment of a felony offender may be eligible for a cash reward. This incentive encourages citizens to share information without hesitation.

• Direct Support for Law Enforcement: Every piece of information received is forwarded to law enforcement agencies for investigation, enhancing their ability to solve crimes and improve community safety.

Structure and Funding of Crime Stoppers

Crime Stoppers of Pinellas County is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. As such, the program operates independently from tax dollars and relies on the generosity of the community to continue its mission.

The organization is overseen by a volunteer Board of Directors, composed of community leaders and concerned citizens from across Pinellas County. This board plays a vital role in:

• Providing financial oversight and guidance for the program.

• Directing promotional activities to raise awareness of Crime Stoppers in the community.

• Maintaining strong community involvement which is central to the program’s long-term success.

The Board meets on a monthly basis to review cases, evaluate arrests, and determine reward amounts.

Rewards

The program provides cash rewards of up to $5,000 for tips that lead to an arrest or grand jury indictment. Rewards are distributed discreetly to protect the caller’s anonymity.

Does Crime Stoppers Work?

The answer is a resounding yes. Since its inception, Crime Stoppers programs worldwide have received countless calls, resulting in thousands of arrests and the recovery of significant amounts of stolen property, illegal drugs, and firearms. Tips have assisted law enforcement in solving cases involving murder, robbery, sexual assault, aggravated assault, narcotics, and weapons offenses.