By Sharyn L. Decker
Lewis County Sirens news reporter
CHEHALIS – On Jan. 19, 1995, a local group helped kick off a crime fighting program to collect anonymous tips regarding crimes in the Lewis County area.
The information would be forwarded to the appropriate law enforcement agency, and if police made an arrest and/or cleared the case, the tipster would be eligible for a cash reward.
Crime Stoppers of Lewis County, a non-profit organization, has continued to work over the past 20 years, leading to the arrests of more than 333 individuals, according to the group.
“The program works, the organization states in a news release. “It works because of strong community support, media advertising and hard work by the police agencies.”
In two decades, the tips have cleared more than 411 cases and recovered stolen property and drugs exceeding $3 million, according to the group.
A board of directors made up of Lewis County volunteer citizens administer the Crime Stoppers program. The board establishes policy, is responsible for fund raising and authorizes rewards.
It’s funded entirely from individuals, corporations, service clubs and business donations.
The way it works is, the group publishes a “Crime of the Week” each week. The information can be found on its web site and is also highlighted by local media partners.
People with information may call 1-800-748-6422 with their tip, and are given a tip number unique to them. Once the board authorizes any reward, the tipsters are notified (via that number) to phone Crime Stoppers of Lewis County.
Tipster are eligible for a reward up to $1,000.
In early 2013, Student Crime Stoppers was created for middle and high school students. School districts in Chehalis have been participating since then and Adna School District joined last year. The group is hoping to add more school districts to the program this year.
Crime Stoppers signs have been erected throughout the county and more locations are being sought where the owner would allow a sign to be placed.
The organization is also involved in what’s called My ID Club, which creates a laminated card that contains identification with a child’s photo, fingerprint and identifying information and is given to the parent or guardian to put in a safe place in the event it is ever needed.
The group says while its board has worked hard, new members and volunteers are always needed to make the program a success.
Crime Stoppers of Lewis County will mark its 20th anniversary on Tuesday and is showing its gratitude by holding an open house.
“Please stop by, look at the history of our program, enjoy the refreshments, and help us celebrate the success of this program,” the group states in its news release.
Where: Lewis County Law and Justice Building, in the training room on the first floor, at 345 W. Main Street, Chehalis
When: Tuesday, January 20th from noon until 6 p.m.
Tags: By Sharyn L. Decker, news reporter