Governor Abbott Proclaims January 2016 to be Crime Stoppers Month
As Texas’ former attorney general, our state’s chief law enforcement officer, I understand all too well the dangers that crime presents to our society. Criminals disrupt the otherwise peaceful routine of our lives, causing injury, damage or even worse outcomes. Since 1976, Crime Stoppers programs have empowered citizens across our state to take a stand against crime. These programs bring together citizens, law enforcement agencies and the media to solve crimes and apprehend criminals.
Crime Stoppers’ method of receiving anonymous tips and offering rewards has proven effective. Since Texas Crime Stoppers’ inception in 1981, 1.5 million tips have resulted in 200,000 suspects arrested, more than $1.4 billion has been recovered in property and narcotics and $42.5 million in rewards have been paid.
In addition to keeping communities safe, many Crime Stoppers organizations have campus programs to combat crime in schools. Since 2012, nearly 80,000 tips have resulted in more than 6,000 weapons and $2 million in illegal drugs removed from Texas schools and nearly $3 million in rewards paid out to student tipsters.
Every year, the month of January is dedicated to raising awareness of Crime Stoppers’ successes and inspiring more Texans to get involved.
At this time, I encourage all Texans to join in this effort and work to make Texas a safer and even better place to live, work and raise a family.
Therefore, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby proclaim January 2016 to be Crime Stoppers Month.
GREG ABBOTT
Governor
View a PDF of the Proclamation here