CRIME STOPPERS IS READY TO GET PUBLIC INVOLVED

When elderly residents became the target of a rash of burglaries in Cape Girardeau several months ago, there was a definite increase in concern, both among potential victims and in the community in general. As the break-ins continued without any arrests, police sought help from townspeople.

The response was simple: Several rewards that together totalled several thousand dollars were offered. The rewards served several purposes. First, they prompted individuals to provide new information about the burglaries. The rewards also brought considerable attention from the news media. Moreover, the rewards raised public awareness both of the need for safety precautions and for being alert to suspicious activity in neighborhoods. Several businesses donated locks and other safety devices to be installed at the homes of elderly residents.

As it turned out, the public became better informed and better prepared to deal with the issue of home burglaries. And, best of all, the series of burglaries came to a halt, perhaps because of the intense community awareness.

Another result of the daily publicity about the burglaries was the idea to organize an ongoing effort to inform the public about crimes and to seek the public's help when police need more information. After three months of discussions and preparation, Southeast Missouri Crime Stoppers Inc. is ready to go to work.

Crime Stoppers is a nationwide effort used by communities to bring the public and police together in solving crimes where too little information is available to make an arrest. In addition, Crime Stoppers has proven to be an effective way to increase public awareness about crime and how to prevent it.

Soon, the news media will begin regular information campaigns regarding safety tips and recent unsolved crimes. Rewards will be offered. Tipsters will remain anonymous.

All of this is happening thanks to a concerted effort involving both police officials and the community. A board has been formed, and several individuals and businesses have taken a keen interest in getting Crime Stoppers off and running. Among those who have helped are KBSI-TV, Ameritech, United Way, Noon Lions Club and an anonymous donor. Cash donations are to be made soon by Sam's Club, Cape West Rotary Club and the Southeast Missourian.

It is good to know that when the community pulls together, it can effectively tackle crime. Criminals should be on the alert that an informed public provides a good offense in brining about swift arrests and convictions.