Canberrans made over 14,000 calls and over 3,460 online information reports to Crime Stoppers last year in an effort to make the community safer.
The reports are seen as a vital investigative tool for ACT Policing in detecting and preventing crime – as well as leading to arrests.
Figures released by Crime Stoppers show that community information provided to the organisation last year helped to apprehend more than 7,000 criminals across Australia – or around 21 per day.
This week Crime Stoppers ACT is running a series of community events to mark Crime Stoppers Week and to further educate Canberrans about the organisation’s vital role in law enforcement.
“Crime Stoppers plays a unique role in providing the Australian community with an anonymous mechanism for reporting crime information,” said ACT Region Crime Stoppers Chair, Diana Forrester.
“As a community-based organisation, Crime Stoppers is the trusted link between the community, the media and police. We need your support to achieve a safer community, and everyone can help.
“Something that may appear small or insignificant could prove vital to an investigation. One piece of information can help to solve – or even prevent – a crime,” she said.
“Crime Stoppers is a vital investigative tool for ACT Policing, providing the opportunity for members of the public to report crime anonymously online or by calling 1800 333 000. This allows our officers to detect, reduce and prevent criminal activity,” said Acting Deputy Chief Police Officer Stephen Turnbull.
Ms Forrester said that all Australian states and territories will be celebrating Crime Stoppers week with a range of activities aimed at showing appreciation to the community for coming forward with information to help solve crime.
This is the first year Crime Stoppers ACT will be running community events, with activities including a colouring competition, an online scavenger hunt and a public event in Garema Place on Thursday 18th between 10 am and 3 pm. To get involved or find out more please visit CrimeStoppersWeekACT.com.au.
Crime Stoppers is a not-for-profit organisation aimed at building safer communities. Canberrans who see anything or know anything of concern are encouraged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or to make a report online at act.crimestoppers.com.au. Information can be provided confidentially.
Top photo: ACT Region Crime Stoppers Chair, Diana Forrester, with Acting Deputy Chief Police Officer, Stephen Turnbull, at the launch of Crime Stoppers Week in Canberra on Monday. Photo by ACT Region Crime Stoppers.
Have you ever called Crime Stoppers? Do you think it made a difference? How important is Crime Stoppers in making Canberra safer? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
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