Okanagan Crimestoppers gets international recognition

Nov 23, 2021 | 2:15 PM Pete McIntyre

A crime-fighting group is making a difference in the Central Okanagan.

Crime Stoppers International has announced its annual awards for outstanding Crime Stoppers programs around the world, with Central Okanagan Crime Stoppers receiving the award for Productivity – Total Property and Drugs Recovered in the up to 300,000 population category.

“We are extremely pleased to be the recipient of this international award,” said local coordinator Gerry Guiltenane. “It recognizes the efforts of the citizens of the Central Okanagan, our media partners and the diligent work of the RCMP members in solving crime and keeping our communities safe.”

Since its inception in 1987, Central Okanagan Crime Stoppers has received over 30,000 tips resulting in more than 2,900 arrests, the recovery of stolen property valued at almost $5.2-million and over $88-million worth of illegal drugs.

Crime Stoppers is an international program that empowers the public to fight back against crime by submitting an anonymous tip using the tips line (1-800-222-8477). If that tip leads to an arrest, the individual may receive a reward of up to $2,000 for their efforts.

Central Okanagan Crime Stoppers programs also include

Mug$hots
Unsolved Crimes
Missing Persons
Hot Recs
‘Turn in a Tagger’ graffiti program
Fortis energy theft program.

The Crime Stopper program is provided by the non-profit, volunteer supported Central Okanagan Crime Stopper Society in partnership with the Regional District of Central Okanagan.