What is Crime Stoppers?

Crime Stoppers is a non-profit organization working with the community, law enforcement and the news media to help solve crimes.  Crime Stoppers began in 1976 in Albuquerque, New Mexico when a young detective, frustrated by the number of unsolved cases had exhausted their leads and looked to the public for help. The local community, media, and law enforcement joined together in partnership to create Crime Stoppers. Money from private and public sectors were raised to pay for cash rewards for crime tip information. Today, there are over 1,400 Crime Stoppers Programs worldwide. The Los Angeles Regional Crime Stoppers includes members from law enforcement agencies, radio, television, newspapers, internet bloggers and community members, all volunteering their efforts to solve crime.

People with knowledge about crimes that have occurred can call a hotline, text or log into the Crime Stoppers website, and provide crime tip information. The tipster’s identity is always encrypted and a private code is assigned to the tipster. If the information leads to an arrest, the tipster is eligible to receive a reward up to $1000.

Q: What number do I call to submit a tip?
A: 800-222-TIPS (8477)

Q: When can I submit a tip?
A: You may submit an anonymous tip anytime, anywhere, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, by phone, text, or through the Internet.

Q: What types of Crime tips should be submitted?
A: Crime Stoppers wants information on crimes that have occurred including unsolved crimes. If a crime is in progress, please dial 9-1-1.

Q: Will it cost me to send a text tip?
A: Crime Stoppers requires no fee to participate.
However, standard messaging rates and other fees may apply. Check with your phone company for more details.

Q: What do I do if I have problems texting my tip?
A: If you have problems texing your tip from your mobile phone, send a text message with the word “HELP” to 274637 (CRIMES) for program information. This is information for phone problems only. Do not solicit law enforcement help from this number, instead call 911 for emergencies.

Q: Can I use Crime Stoppers if I am a victim of a crime?
A: No. If you are a victim of a crime, please immediately report it to your nearest police or Sheriff’s station.