Service offers rewards for anonymous crime tips
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Each year, as the weather warms, crime in southwest Wyoming increases. It can put law enforcement to the test by stretching their resources. Public involvement can alleviate much of the stress put on law enforcement. Not as vigilantes but as the eyes and ears for law enforcement and providing information.
In southwest Wyoming, Crime Stoppers has been an effective tool since about 1987. Crime Stoppers provides incentive for public participation by offering rewards for information while keeping the informant anonymous.
“I started working with others to initiate our Crime Stoppers after being robbed at gun point in 1986,” said Tim Lynch. “I was managing the old Whirl Inn when I was held up while closing out one night. The guy held a Mac 10 to my head. You know how I know that? I could read it.”
The original Crime Stoppers was involved in the national program but later became an independent program.
“We wanted to ensure we kept the money and rewards here at home,” said Brad Von Syoc. “The national program required sending some funds to them.”
Since the inception of Crime Stoppers the program has authorized more than $10,000 in rewards. More than $1,800 has been authorized in the past 24 months.
The program stays alive by holding several fundraisers each year and accepting tax-deductible donations.
“We became a 501c3 so donors can deduct their contributions fro their taxes,” said Lynch. “The board members have been doing a great job of working with residents and businesses to provide funding. They work the various fundraisers and acquire donations. Recently, Tara Lawler was able to secure a sizeable donation.”
There are a wide variety of crimes committed in southwest Wyoming but domestic abuse is a big concern, according to Van Syoc. Vandalism and drugs also continue to be problems.
Crime Stoppers continues to assist law enforcement in Wyoming to solve crimes by providing a truly anonymous avenue for the public to utilize.
If you have information pertaining to a crime, you can call (307) 789-CASH or send a text message to (307) 708-CASH. You can also check out the Facebook page for Crime Stoppers of Southwest Wyoming.
