Crime Stoppers Policies and Practices:

Purpose:

Crime Stoppers is a partnership of the community, the media and law enforcement.  Concerned citizens form the non-profit corporation, provide the rewards and oversee the program; the media regularly publicizes the unsolved crimes; tips are taken and forwarded to law enforcement and law enforcement investigates the crimes that lead to the arrests. The cooperation and involvement of each partner is crucial for the success of Crime Stoppers programs today.

Board Meetings:

Crime Stoppers of Topeka board members meet on the second Tuesday of each month at the Law Enforcement Center- Topeka Police Headquarters. The board conducts a monthly review of the treasurer's report, considers new business, and examines the coordinator's recommendations for rewards and "Crimes of the Week." 

The board also welcomes presentations from a variety of community organizations that may be of assistance or seek assistance from the Crime Stoppers Program.

Rewards:

Rewards for information in criminal activities or cases are determined monthly by a majority vote of the board, following recommendations from the coordinator. Rewards are usually determined based on a grid developed by the coordinator that sets maximum amounts for various types of information, according to the severity of the crime or the threat to the community. Occasionally, board members may deviate from the grid recommendations; based on special circumstances.