Violent crime continues to be a big Tallahassee problem. Now community leaders are revamping an old tool to aid in the fight.
Since 1984, Big Bend Crimestoppers has given those with information about criminal activity a way to report it anonymously and maybe even get a cash reward for their trouble. Now, Executive Director Sharon Ofuani is turning the page.
"Big Bend Crimestoppers is now Big Bend Crime Solvers!" she exclaimed as a shroud was removed from a large sign bearing the program's new name.
Ofuani said there were multiple reasons for the organization's rebranding.
"We decided to address these concerns: the rate and severity of crime, the misunderstanding of our relationship with law enforcement, overcoming the fear of reporting crime and the lack of connection with and being known to the newer generation."
And it's not just a name change. A big promotional campaign is also underway. A primary target is young people who are among those most unaware of the program.
But still in place are cash awards for information that leads to arrests, as explained by Tallahassee City Commissioner Diane Williams-Cox.
"I don't subscribe to 'snitches get stitches.' I believe that snitches get riches."
