Building a Program

Crime Stoppers programs are started by concerned citizens who want to help their communities fight crime.

Each program is independent and operates under its own board of directors.

Board members come from all segments of the community and donate their time and talents for one common goal: to make the program a success by assisting law enforcement in reducing crime.

Three Partners Are Essential to a
Crime Stoppers Program

The Community
Citizens form the foundation of the
Bay Area Crime Stoppers program. They serve as volunteer directors on the Crime Stoppers board with responsibility to operate the nonprofit corporation, raise funds and approve reward payments when crimes are solved. Members of the public support Crime Stoppers at public events and through other fundraising activities. And, of course, people call Crime Stoppers when they have information that will solve crime.

The Media
Local media outlets have responsibility for promoting Crime Stoppers by publicizing unsolved crimes. Newspapers as well as radio and television stations in the community regularly broadcast a Crime of the Week story which highlights an unsolved case. This appeal can include a video reenactment of a crime to give the public a visual portrayal of what occurred and some ideas about the information investigators may require to solve a case. The media also regularly promote the special Crime Stoppers phone and text messaging numbers.

Law Enforcement
Local law enforcement agencies receive and process the anonymous tips coming in through Crime Stoppers and use them to solve crimes. If tip information leads to arrest and charges, the caller will be paid up to $2,000 for the information.