Anonymous tips made through PEI Crime Stoppers continue to help police solve and prevent crime in Prince Edward Island.
“Crime Stoppers helps members of the community to fight crime by overcoming their fear and their apathy,” said Premier and Minister of Justice and Public Safety and Attorney General Wade MacLauchlan. “PEI Crime Stoppers plays a significant role in making Prince Edward Island one of the safest places in Canada, which is why we proclaim every January as Crime Stoppers Month.”
The annual Crime Stoppers Month designation raises awareness of the 1,700 programs in 32 countries. It also encourages more concerned citizens to report information about a crime or potential crime without providing their name, and without fear of reprisal.
Information provided to police by PEI Crime Stoppers since its creation 20 years ago has helped clear 934 criminal cases and recover more than $2.5 million in stolen property and illegal drugs. The Prince Edward Island government provides the organization a $10,000 grant each year.
“Public awareness is our greatest weapon against crime, so most of our revenue is spent on making sure people know how to reach us,” said Don Reid, president of PEI Crime Stoppers. “We are thankful for the provincial government’s annual contribution and are always exploring opportunities to improve our community outreach.”
Prince Edward Island has the nation’s lowest Violent Crime Severity Index and the lowest rate in Canada per 100,000 residents for assault, robbery, drug trafficking, and vehicle theft.
“Although we may not have the crime of some of the larger provinces,” the minister said, “we must remain vigilant and continue working with our law enforcement partners – and groups like Crime Stoppers – to keep Islanders safe.”
To submit an anonymous tip about a crime or potential crime, call 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or visit www.peicrimestoppers.com.