Calgary Crime Stoppers Association

The Calgary Crime Stoppers Association is a Canadian registered non-profit and charitable organization dedicated to involving the public in crime prevention and investigation efforts. Established as the first Crime Stoppers program in Canada in 1982, it operates primarily through anonymous public tips that lead to the solving of crimes, recovery of stolen property, and seizure of illegal substances.

History and Background

Crime Stoppers originated in Albuquerque, New Mexico, when a police detective worked with a local television station to solve a murder case by offering anonymity and cash rewards to informants. Calgary launched Canada's first Crime Stoppers program following this model to foster community cooperation with law enforcement agencies for crime solving.

Mission and Activities

The Association's mission is to provide members of the public with the opportunity to anonymously pass information to police that can help solve crimes. It offers a 24-hour anonymous crime reporting tip line and online submission system. When a tip results in an arrest, recovery of stolen property, or seizure of illegal goods, cash rewards are disbursed to the informants.

Since its inception, Calgary Crime Stoppers has:

• Helped clear over 14,300 criminal cases
• Recovered over $18.4 million in stolen property
• Seized more than $296 million worth of illegal drugs (as of March 2019)

Governance

The organization is administered by a volunteer Board of Directors, responsible for overseeing the program’s operations, raising funds, increasing public awareness, and managing reward disbursements. The Board works closely with local law enforcement agencies, including the Calgary Police Service and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, as well as media partners.

Funding and Support

Calgary Crime Stoppers is funded through donations from individuals, corporations, professional associations, retailers, and community groups. It relies heavily on community partnerships and volunteer support to maintain its programs and services.

Service Area

While based in Calgary, the program serves a broader region including Airdrie, Banff, Brooks, Canmore, Cochrane, Drumheller, High River, Okotoks, and Strathmore, offering rewards and anonymous reporting services across these communities.

Impact

By engaging the public with anonymity and incentives, Calgary Crime Stoppers has become a vital component of the local law enforcement ecosystem. Its success in solving crimes and reducing criminal activity underscores the effectiveness of community cooperation and innovative crime fighting methods.

Business Registration Number: 118823434RR0001
Status: Registered Charitable Organization

The Calgary Crime Stoppers Association exemplifies a collaborative approach to public safety through its anonymous tip program, community involvement, and support for law enforcement efforts in Calgary and surrounding areas.

[1] https://calgarycrimestoppers.org/about/ [2] https://calgarycrimestoppers.org [3] https://ab.211.ca/record/1123511/agency/ [4] https://www.charitydata.ca/charity/calgary-crime-stoppers-association/118823434RR0001/ [5] https://ab.211.ca/record/1123511/