CRIME STOPPERS IS ALREADY MAKING A DIFFERENCE

Crime stoppers can stop crime in the region.

In its first two weeks, the organization is already making progress as tips are coming in on the special Crime Stoppers hotline, 573-332-0500.

In only its second week of operation, two juveniles were arrested for car theft -- thanks to an anonymous tip to the Crime Stoppers hotline. The two had reportedly stolen the car late Tuesday and led police on a brief chase before they abandoned the stolen car. An unsuccessful manhunt followed.

The tip was important for several reasons. First, it demonstrates the effectiveness of the program. Jackson Detective Richard Rushin said the investigation was slow-going before the tip. Secondly, it underscores the regional aspect of the program.

Crime Stoppers can benefit the entire region, not just Cape Girardeau. That's why the board appropriately named the organization: Southeast Missouri Crime Stoppers.

The Crime Stoppers program has received about a half dozen calls in its first two weeks of operation. That number should climb as more people learn about the program.

Each Tuesday, the Southeast Missourian will feature a crime as a way to encourage more Crime Stoppers calls. But simple fact is: any crime is eligible for a Crime Stoppers award. The tip need only result in an arrest -- not conviction. In this way, the payment will come much faster for tipsters.

Individuals who provide the tips may remain anonymous and still receive payment. Informants will receive the reward money via a secret identification number.

It was a real coup that the local Crime Stoppers group secured "America's Most Wanted" host John Walsh to promo the area's program in television commercials. This provided a real recognition boost for this new program.

In 1981, Walsh's young son, Adam, was abducted and murdered. Walsh has hosted "America's Most Wanted" for a decade. The show has been credited with the capture of more than 400 fugitives.

Crime Stoppers is a credit to the local men and women who organized the effort, and the groups and businesses that are lending their support. The board meets each week to decide on featured crimes and payments to tipsters.

More contributions are also needed from the community to keep the Crime Stoppers reward fund active. Contributions can be sent to: Southeast Missouri Crime Stoppers, P.O. Box 1056, Cape Girardeau, Mo., 63702-1056.

Many people feel helpless about crime in their community. But the fact is programs like Crime Stoppers and Neighborhood Watch can have a real impact in lowering crime and catching criminals. By donating to Crime Stoppers or becoming a tipster, citizens can become proactive in the fight against crime in Southeast Missouri.