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.
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom