Frequently Asked Questions
WHAT IS CRIME STOPPERS?
Champaign County Crime Stoppers is a local non-profit, anti-crime program designed to provide citizens a means to anonymously report criminal activity to the police.
WHAT IS THE PROCESS AND HOW DOES CRIME STOPPERS WORK?
When you call, the trained call taker will take your information, record it on a form and assign you a secret code number. The process will be explained to you. The information received immediately goes to local law enforcement for investigation and action. Some tips lead directly to an arrest within 20 minutes.
HOW IS MY CALL ANSWERED?
All calls are answered by personnel professionally trained to take Crime Stopper tips. Call 217-373-TIPS and they'll walk you thru the entire process. It's anonymous and easy!
HOW IS MY CALL AND IDENTITY PROTECTED?
Callers to the TIPS line will never be asked for their name. They are assigned a secret code number which is then used in all subsequent contacts. The phone line is NOT recorded and all caller ID information is electronically scrubbed and deleted.
HOW ELSE CAN I CONTACT CRIME STOPPERS?
You can also leave an anonymous web tip here on the Champaign County Crime Stoppers' website or use our free P3 Tips mobile app available for iPhone and Android.
WHAT KIND OF INFORMATION IS CRIME STOPPERS LOOKING FOR?
Crime Stoppers is looking for information that will lead to an arrest for an unsolved or pending crime or for a person who has a warrant for their arrest. These are commonly featured in the local newspaper, radio, television, and on the Crime Stoppers website.
ARE THERE OTHER THINGS I CAN REPORT?
Information on any crime, fugitive, missing person or suspicious criminal activity can be reported. Information may also be reported on arsons and false alarms. Pulled false fire alarms are a felony.
HOW WILL I KNOW IF I AM ELIGIBLE FOR A MONETARY REWARD?
When you report a tip, you will receive information and instructions on when and how to follow up. It's very important that you keep your secret code number. It's the only tool you have to check back on your tip and get a possible reward.
HOW DO I RECEIVE MONEY?
If your tip leads to an arrest you will be provided cash in an envelope at a designated public meeting place. We do not issue checks because we do not know your name. If you qualify for a reward, you will be instructed on where and when to pick up your money.
WHO DETERMINES REWARD PAYMENTS?
Champaign County Crime Stoppers is governed by a Board of Directors. The Board, composed of dedicated volunteers from across Champaign County meets monthly to determine which calls merit a reward payment and the amount of each reward. Various items are taken into consideration including the helpfulness of the information and the severity of the crime.