Central Okanagan celebrates Crime Stoppers Month

January is Crime Stoppers Month and the Central Okanagan is pleased to join communities across Canada to celebrate its 39th annual observance, highlighting the important role Central Okanagan Crime Stoppers plays in fostering a safer community.

Crime Stoppers is a community-driven initiative that empowers residents to prevent and solve crimes by providing a safe and anonymous way to share information. This simple yet powerful concept has become an essential tool for local RCMP and law enforcement agencies.

In the Central Okanagan, Crime Stoppers has been instrumental in solving numerous cases, from property crimes to serious offences. The program’s success is a testament to the strong partnership between law enforcement, Central Okanagan communities and local media. These partnerships are essential in ensuring that the program remains effective and responsive to the needs of the communities served. 

Last year was a great success for Central Okanagan Crime Stoppers. Thanks to strong partnerships and community engagement, they received 1052 tips resulting in 73 arrests, approved 15 rewards totalling $5100 and recovered $25,000 in property. Outreach efforts focused on promoting fraud awareness among seniors and personal safety among youth across the region. 

Since its inception, Central Okanagan Crime Stoppers has received over 34,000 tips, leading to over 3,000 arrests, paid over $200,000 of reward money to anonymous tipsters and recovered $94,000,000 worth of property, cash and illegal items. 

“We are incredibly grateful for the support of our community,” said Balzor Singh, President of the Central Okanagan Crime Stoppers Society. “Every tip represents someone choosing to make a difference. Together, we’re building safer streets and stronger communities.”

Crime Stoppers guarantees complete anonymity for tipsters. Submit tips by calling 1-800-222-8477 or securely online at crimestoppers.net. If your tip leads to an arrest, you may receive a reward of up to $2,000.

The community can further support Central Okanagan Crime Stoppers by becoming members or making donations. Memberships and donations help sustain the program and fund rewards for anonymous tipsters. To become a member or donate, visit the Central Okanagan Crime Stoppers website. Learn more at crimestoppers.net.