CHAMPAIGN COUNTY (Chambana Today) – For many people, coming forward with information about a crime can be a stressful idea. Fear of retaliation or getting involved in a legal process can prevent people from sharing what they know. But in Champaign County, a unique program offers a way for citizens to help law enforcement solve crimes while keeping their identities safe. Crime Stoppers has made it easier for community members to be part of the solution, without fear of exposure or retribution.

Since its inception in 1986, the Champaign County Crime Stoppers (CCCS) program has helped local authorities solve over 2,300 cases. More than 28,000 tips have been submitted and over $280,000 has been paid to local citizens since CCCS began. The unique aspect of Champaign County Crime Stoppers’ payment promise is that tipsters are paid after a tip leads to an arrest – a conviction is not needed to receive the money from a tip.

How Does Crime Stoppers Work?

Crime Stoppers operates through a completely independent, non-profit organization that facilitates the anonymous exchange of information between tipsters and law enforcement agencies. All of the local law enforcement agencies work with Crime Stoppers, and there are dedicated law enforcement coordinators who are assigned exclusively to work with Crime Stoppers to investigate the tips they receive.

When someone calls Crime Stoppers, their identity is secure through several layers of protection:

  • No Caller ID: Phone numbers are not tracked or identified.
  • No Recordings: Calls are not recorded, ensuring that conversations remains confidential.
  • Electronic Scrubbing: All personal identifying information is automatically removed from the Crime Stoppers system, further securing anonymity.

Longtime President of the Champaign County Crime Stoppers, John Hecker, says the money paid to tipsters comes from donations and the group’s fundraising efforts. “We are a not-for-profit and rely on donations from the community. None of us are paid – it is an entirely volunteer-driven organization. We don’t have any development staff to raise money, which means we don’t have any administrative costs. As a result, 93 cents/dollar is paid directly as rewards.”

Once someone has submitted a tip, they receive a unique code number. This code allows them to follow up with Crime Stoppers to find out if the information has led to an arrest. If the tip results in an arrest, the person may be eligible for a cash reward of up to $5,000. Homicide tips receive the maximum payout, and other crimes have set amounts assigned to them, such as gun crimes, armed robberies, arson, and drug-related crimes. Crime Stoppers will arrange for the reward to be paid out at a discreet location.

The Champaign County Crime Stoppers Board of Directors is comprised of 24 members – a diverse group of people from all of the communities that comprise Champaign County. They meet monthly to review tips and decide which ones warrant a reward. The board takes into account the usefulness of the information provided, and the severity of the crime involved.

How Can You Submit an Anonymous Tip?

There are several ways you can submit a tip to Crime Stoppers:

  • Phone: Call 217-373-TIPS (8477)
  • Online: Visit 373tips.com
  • Mobile App: Download the free P3 Tips app from the iTunes or Google Play Store.

Hecker says submitting a tip to Crime Stoppers is the perfect way to help but not worry about retaliation. “The tipster never has to testify in court, and they won’t have their name in the media. The anonymity is the most important tenant of this program.”

Your Role in Making the Community Safer

If a resident has information that could help solve a crime, don’t hesitate to reach out—even if you’re unsure whether your tip is important. Every piece of information counts, and your tip could be the one that helps bring justice to a victim or closes a case that has been open for years.

Whether you’re reporting a serious crime or something that seems minor, the Crime Stoppers program ensures that your information is handled confidentially, and that you’re not at risk. And remember, your tip might not only help the community but could also result in a cash reward.

To donate to the Champaign County Crime Stoppers, visit their website.