TIPS FROM PUBLIC LEAD TO FUGITIVES' CAPTURE

Without the public's assistance, seven armed and dangerous fugitives who escaped Dec. 13 from a Texas prison would probably still be holed up somewhere.

Thousands of tips were called in to police. In the end, it was one person who watched "America's Most Wanted" on television who connected the new arrivals in a Woodland Park, Colo., trailer park with the fugitives.

Four of the fugitives were captured. One committed suicide. That left two of the escapees at large.

Again, it was a tip about suspicious activity at a motel that led police to the last two fugitives.

Never underestimate the importance of the public's eyes and ears when police are trying to solve crimes. Programs like "America's Most Wanted" have impressive track records in producing tips that solve crimes where officials have all but given up.

Programs like Crime Stoppers in Cape Girardeau also are extremely useful in the apprehension of criminals and suspects. If you think you know something about a crime, share that information.