NCJ Number
103056
Date Published
1986
Length
70 pages
Annotation
A 2-year research effort focused on the nature and operation of Crime Stoppers programs, the programs' advantages and disadvantages, and the findings' policy implications.
Abstract
The main study data were gathered in 1984. Data came from a literature review, a telephone survey of all known programs, mail surveys of program participants, and visits to nine sites. The programs are highly standardized. Each program usually consists of a coordinator from the police department, detectives, a community board of directors, media outlets, and citizen callers who provide tips. Nearly all programs offer rewards and provide anonymity to callers. The number of programs grew from 48 in 1980 to about 600 in 1985. New programs receive extensive help from existing ones during their formation. Crime Stoppers is highly visible and well regarded by participants, although concerns have been expressed about the focus on anonymous calls and large rewards. The programs have solved 92,000 felony crimes, recovered $562 million in stolen property, and convicted more than 20,000 criminals. The programs probably will not affect the overall crime rates. However, taxpayers will probably view them as cost effective, because private contributions fund them. Crime Stoppers also appears to solve certain felony cases that are unlikely to be solved through traditional methods. The levels of effort by coordinators and boards of directors affect programs' productivity, although measurement problems hamper documentation of program performance. Tables, figures, recommendations, 35 references. For the complete study, see NCJ 103057.