Texas Crime Stoppers: A Proven Blueprint for Crime Prevention in America

When it comes to community-driven public safety, Texas has built a model worth watching—and emulating. What began in 1981 with just eight certified programs has expanded into a robust network of nearly 150 certified Crime Stoppers organizations. Fueled by partnerships among everyday citizens, law enforcement, and media, these programs have transformed how Texans prevent and solve crime, all while strengthening trust across the state.

Texas Crime Stoppers is a unique grassroots movement where anonymity, cash rewards, and public engagement converge. Citizens can submit crime tips without fear of retaliation, and if their information leads to an arrest or charges, they may receive a reward. This framework, simple yet effective, has made Crime Stoppers one of the most cost-efficient tools in the fight against crime. Each program is supported by a local volunteer board—generally 15 to 25 members strong—that reflects the community it serves. These boards oversee policy, manage funds, raise reward money, and coordinate directly with law enforcement. A designated law enforcement coordinator ensures tips are followed up quickly, acting as the critical link between the board, police agencies, and the media.

As concerns around school safety have grown, Texas has expanded its model to include Campus Crime Stoppers. These school-based programs empower students and staff to report threats, bullying, drug activity, and more—anonymously and safely. Tips have prevented violence, interrupted drug activity, and brought light to serious issues that might otherwise go unreported. Whether operating as an arm of a local community program or as an independent nonprofit, Campus Crime Stoppers is giving schools a vital prevention tool, along with something even more valuable: a culture of accountability and vigilance.

Behind this success is a small but mighty team in the Texas Governor’s Office, which provides support to more than 2,000 volunteers and law enforcement coordinators across the state. This team offers technical guidance, manages financial assistance, hosts annual training conferences, and ensures consistency across all participating organizations. Their work helps programs stay effective, connected, and ready to respond to emerging public safety threats.

Texas Crime Stoppers is also a key ally of the Department of Public Safety, helping spotlight some of the state’s most wanted fugitives and sex offenders. Special reward initiatives like the Texas Stash House Rewards, Fallen Hero Rewards, and unique incident campaigns have helped drive major breakthroughs in high-profile investigations. From thwarting criminal networks to solving cold cases, this partnership has added another layer of strength to an already effective network.

To honor the tireless work happening across the state, the Office of the Governor has opened nominations for the 2025 Texas Best Awards. These awards recognize the innovation, impact, and dedication of certified Crime Stoppers organizations throughout Texas. Whether a program solved a major case or created a breakthrough campaign in its community, now is the time to shine a spotlight on that success. Entries are due by Friday, August 29, 2025, and organizations do not have to attend the conference to be eligible. Each entry must be clearly labeled with the program name and award category.

While the reach of Texas Crime Stoppers is local, its lessons are national. In a time when communities everywhere are grappling with public safety, Texas offers a blueprint that works. It’s cost-effective, volunteer-driven, and rooted in the belief that citizens, when given the right tools and protections, are the strongest force we have in the fight against crime. Other states would be wise to take notice—and take notes.