Deputy Chief and Acting Mayor Highlight Community Safety
THUNDER BAY – NEWS – January has been proclaimed as Crime Stoppers Month in Thunder Bay. Deputy Chief Ryan Hughes of the Thunder Bay Police Service (TBPS) joined Acting Mayor Albert Aiello at a flag-raising ceremony at City Hall to acknowledge the crucial role Crime Stoppers plays in enhancing community safety.
The event emphasized the importance of public collaboration with law enforcement to reduce crime and improve neighborhood safety through tip submissions and active community involvement.
The History and Mission of Crime Stoppers
Crime Stoppers began in Albuquerque, New Mexico, in 1976 when Detective Greg MacAleese sought public help in solving a murder. The concept quickly spread globally, with Thunder Bay establishing its chapter in the early 1980s.
The program allows community members to provide anonymous tips about criminal activity without fear of retaliation. Over the years, Crime Stoppers has become a cornerstone of modern policing, solving thousands of cases and recovering millions in stolen property and illegal substances worldwide.
How Crime Stoppers Supports Law Enforcement
Crime Stoppers acts as a bridge between the public and law enforcement. Tips submitted through the program often lead to breakthroughs in investigations, including:
- Locating wanted persons.
- Solving property crimes.
- Disrupting drug trafficking networks.
- Identifying individuals involved in violent crimes.
Anonymous reporting ensures that individuals can safely share information without risking their safety. These tips help law enforcement address local concerns effectively.
Becoming Crime-Aware and Reporting Suspicious Activity
Residents can play an active role in creating a safer community by staying alert to unusual or suspicious activities in their neighborhoods.
How to Recognize Suspicious Activity:
- Unusual Traffic: Increased foot or vehicle traffic at a property.
- Odd Behavior: People acting furtively or appearing to surveil homes or businesses.
- Visible Crime Indicators: Tools or items that suggest illegal activities, such as drug paraphernalia or stolen goods.
How to Report Tips:
- Call Crime Stoppers: 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).
- Submit Tips Online: Many Crime Stoppers organizations, including Thunder Bay District, have secure online portals for anonymous submissions.
- Contact Police Directly: For emergencies or immediate threats, always call 911.
Volunteer and Support Crime Stoppers
Crime Stoppers is made possible by dedicated local volunteers who support fundraising, outreach, and program administration. Community members interested in contributing to Crime Stoppers are encouraged to get involved by:
- Volunteering: Assist with community events and awareness campaigns.
- Donating: Contributions help fund rewards for tips that lead to arrests or recoveries.
Crime Stoppers Month serves as a reminder that safety is a shared responsibility. By working together, residents and law enforcement can create a safer Thunder Bay for all.
