The Alberta RCMP hosted Crime Stoppers Alberta for the launch of a new rural sign campaign on Jan. 21 in Edmonton.
As community partners, Crime Stoppers are a valuable part of the ensuring the safety of Albertans, according to an RCMP release.
"They work with the Alberta RCMP helping to report crimes that are occurring in communities across the province. When people may wish to remain anonymous, they can report crimes they witness to Alberta Crime Stoppers knowing that their personal information will be kept confidential, but that law enforcement will be informed."
The anonymous tips allow the RCMP to investigate incidents they would otherwise not know about.
In 2024, tips from Crime Stoppers helped lead to hundreds of charges being laid and millions of dollars’ worth of property being recovered.
Meanwhile, the new campaign aims to bring smaller communities together, raise awareness of Crime Stoppers and encourage citizens to get involved in their community.
The campaign emphasizes that anyone can be a Crime Stopper, with the goal to make Alberta a safe place to live, work and play, continued the release.
Crime Stoppers will work with the rural jurisdictions and indigenous communities to place signs in high traffic locations informing the public of how to contact Crime Stoppers.
The City of Wetaskiwin and Piikani First Nation are already Crime Stopper communities, and the organization is in talks with other communities to join as well.
“Ensuring the safety and building trust in the communities across Alberta is our top priority,” said Chief Superintendent Peter Tewfik, RCMP community safety and well-being branch.
“We are proud to work with Crime Stoppers and appreciate all of the work that they do in bringing communities together and helping keep their fellow Albertans safe.”
Mark Holik, Alberta Crime Stoppers chair, said the initiative builds on the proud legacy of Crime Stoppers in Alberta.
"Programs like this empower residents to take an active role in crime prevention, ensuring that 'what you see', 'what you hear', and 'what you know' is shared through anonymous tips.
"This information helps our police partners solve crime, keeping our communities safe."
For more about Crime Stoppers, the programs they offer, and how to become a crime stopper community, visit www.crimestoppers.ab.ca/.
