McAllen Crime Stoppers began in 1984 with a partnership between the police department and a group of volunteers. The program has had immense success in the City of McAllen with thousands of dollars in numerous arrests resulting in thousands of dollars in rewards to anonymous callers. These arrests have led to the recovery of thousands of dollars in stolen property as well as the seizure of thousands of pounds of narcotics. The Crime Stoppers program stands on the foundation of anonymity. Callers are never asked for their personal information and great lengths are covered to ensure their identity is not revealed.

The McAllen Crime Stoppers Board is comprised of 16 McAllen dedicated volunteers who either resided to work in the city. Currently the board meets on the first Tuesday of every month (12 noon) at the McAllen Police Department.

THE COMMUNITY

Citizens are responsible for forming a Crime Stoppers non-profit corporation, whose directors establish policy, determine amount and method of reward payments, work closely with the police and the media and generally oversee the program. The directors are also responsible for fund raising, and all volunteer service. Tax money is not sought.

THE MEDIA

Crime Stoppers methods, objectives, successes and phone numbers are publicized on a regular basis by the media. An unsolved “Crime of the Week” is given special treatment with details published in newspapers, on radio and in certain cases a re-enactment on television

THE POLICE

A special Crime Stoppers phone (956) 687-TIPS to the community. Callers are assigned a special Code number and NEVER give their names. If, after the investigation, the information leads to an arrest, the caller is entitled to a reward.