Long-awaited funding lifeline for Crime Stoppers
Crime Stoppers SA will finally receive the elusive taxpayer help it’s been waiting for in next week’s Budget.
SA News
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Crime Stoppers is expected to significantly bolster its ability to help the police catch crooks with an $800,000 boost in next week’s State Budget.
The not-for-profit organisation has had to rely on fundraising efforts to operate its service and provide rewards.
It is the only Australian branch to not receive any State Government funding which has been blamed for a cut to public campaigns.
Figures show an average of 25 crimes are solved every week across the state after Crime Stoppers tip-offs.
The investment of $200,000 indexed over four years is the first of its kind for the organisation.
Attorney-General Vickie Chapman said the dedication of the crime-fighting charity has helped SAPOL achieve cold case breakthroughs in high-profile murders because of tip-offs.
“Crime Stoppers has supported SAPOL since 1996 and provides information that has so far helped solve about 30,000 crimes,” she said.
“This funding shows we are dedicated to maintaining a safe and strong South Australia.
“Crime Stoppers helps SAPOL keep communities safe by collecting vital information about criminals and their suspicious activities.”
In September, the Opposition restated its calls for government funding, after Labor promised before the 2018 election to provide $960,000 over four years for the service.
Police Minister Vincent Tarzia said the funding would invigorate Crime Stoppers.
“This cash injection is another way the State Government is committed to upholding law and order in SA,” he said.