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'Crime Stoppers' - A New Psychological Twist in the Battle Against Crime

NCJ Number
103269
Author(s)
D. P. Rosenbaum; A. J. Lurigio
Date Published
1986
Length
29 pages
Annotation
This report discusses the history, operation, effectiveness, and social impact of the 'Crime Stoppers' program, a nationwide effort that uses the mass media to offer cash rewards and anonymity to citizens who give information that leads to the arrest or indictment of a felony suspect.
Abstract
'Crime Stoppers' originated in Albuquerque, N.M., in 1976 through a police officer's efforts to increase citizens' provision of crime information by providing a reward incentive and ensuring anonymity to prevent retaliation by suspects. By 1984, there were approximately 500 programs in 38 states. The program depends on the cooperation of community representatives, the local media, and law enforcement. A board of directors, composed of volunteer citizens, sets policy, coordinates fundraising activities, and formulates a system of reward allocation. Cumulative statistics published by Crime Stoppers International indicate the impressive number of crimes solved through information provided under the program. There is no way to determine whether or not these crimes would have been solved without the program. Although no statistics have directly measured the social impact of the program, related sociological and psychological studies have fueled criticisms of the program, i.e., that cash rewards reduce intrinsic moral commitment to help police, anonymity encourages citizens to spy and 'snitch' on their neighbors, the rights of suspects are compromised by informant anonymity, and the involvement of the mass media in crime reduction is potentially dangerous. Supporters of the program counter these arguments. 2 data tables and 14 references.