Pubdate: Thu, 09 Feb 2006 Source: Wheat City Journal (CN MB) Page: 6 Copyright: 2006 Wheat City Journal. Contact: http://www.wheatcityjournal.ca/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/2922 Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/meth.htm (Methamphetamine) CRIME STOPPERS INCREASING TIP INCENTIVES FOR CRIMES ASSOCIATED WITH CRYSTAL METH As part of a team approach to combat the destructive force of crystal meth in Manitoba, Crime Stoppers across the province are increasing the incentive for citizens to call in anonymously with information on production and distribution of the drug. With the unveiling of their new joint public service announcement, the Manitoba, Winnipeg and Brandon Crime Stoppers have announced that for the month of February they are doubling the cash awards for information on the production or distribution of crystal methamphetamine. "We hope that by joining forces to tackle the ongoing problem of crystal meth in Manitoba we will better highlight the issue and prompt concerned citizens to pass along information anonymously," says RCMP Sgt. Larry Renkas, program coordinator of Manitoba Crime Stoppers. "The three Crime Stoppers programs are pleased to join our partners in law enforcement, media and the citizens of Manitoba to be a part of the province's meth strategy." "The province of Manitoba is pleased with the initiative shown by Crime Stoppers and its partner agencies to deal with crystal meth in our province," said Gord Mackintosh, Manitoba Minister of Justice and Attorney General. "We are committed to ongoing cooperation with our partners here in Manitoba, across Canada and internationally to restrict the supply and reduce the demand for crystal meth." "Partnerships like this are integral to getting the message out to all Manitobans," said Brandon Police Chief Richard Bruce. "Combating the spread of crystal meth use, production and distribution is an important community issue. We are pleased to help prevent the widespread use of this dangerous drug by showing our support for Crime Stoppers and making our communities aware of the Crime Stoppers phone number: 1-800-222-TIPS (8477)." In 2005 tips to the three Crime Stoppers programs in Manitoba have resulted in the seizure of over $29 million in illegal narcotics, the recovery of $3.2 million in stolen property and the approval of 550 cash awards totaling over $60,000. The RCMP "D" Division, Winnipeg Police Service and Brandon Police Service have each dedicated a program coordinator for the respective Crime Stoppers programs. All three programs are active with youth throughout the province and have made over 50 presentations to schools in Brandon, Winnipeg and rural Manitoba. The Manitoba, Winnipeg and Brandon Crime Stoppers programs are each operated by volunteer boards of directors representing their respective areas. The boards coordinate the program, establish policies and raise funds. At the local level, volunteers serve on regional boards and on community committees. They are involved in publicizing the program, raising funds, and overseeing award payments at the community level. - --- MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom