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Even small tips `can make all the difference' Continued from page 3 5 · Friday, February 1, 2013 OAKVILLE BEAVER · www.insideHALTON.com service that will be able to deal with it. The information is not evidence, but can send a police investigation in the right direction -- a direction it might not have taken. Phillips said the bulk of the tips are related to illegal drug activity, however, others can be related to just about anything from fraud to homicide. Occasionally, Proteau said, Crime Stoppers of Halton fields calls for things that are not even police matters such as someone reporting that a child is not being cared for properly. In those instances, Proteau said he forwards the tip to the appropriate agency. If the information ultimately leads to an arrest, the Crime Stoppers board of directors will determine if the individual is entitled to a cash reward. As Crime Stoppers has no idea if the person will receive a reward when they provide information and has no way of calling the individual back, the tipster is given an identification number. They are then asked to call back after a few weeks to see if they have a reward coming to them. An outside agency is given the money and the tipster is left to make arrangements with them for collecting the reward. While every caller is different, Phillips "Most people (tipsters) are really cool and friendly. I find a lot of people aren't even interested in the money, they just want to get something off their chest." Lauren Phillips, Administrative co-ordinator, Crime Stoppers of Halton said for the most part they are quite pleasant. "Most people are really cool and friendly," she said. "I find a lot of people aren't even interested in the money, they just want to get something off their chest." Lack of interest in rewards This lack of interest in the reward money could be seen throughout 2012 when the board of directors approved 27 rewards totalling $3,325. Just four tipsters actually collected their rewards totalling $650. A similar trend can be seen since Crime Stoppers of Halton's inception in 1988 with more than $140,000 in rewards being approved, but only $53,715 claimed. While some tips may not work out, others, no matter how small, can make all the difference in the world to a family devastated by crime. Halton Crime Stoppers Chair Gary McLean knows this better than most. In 2004, McLean's 21-year-old nephew Terry was brutally murdered during a home invasion in Vancouver. McLean said the three men responsible were only caught because someone called Victoria Crime Stoppers and reported they had seen a specific car in the area the night of the murder. Crime Stoppers is a community-based charity and as such requires donations to continue to operate. Donations can be made through Halton Region by calling 905-825-6000, ext. 5139, or online at www.haltoncrimestoppers.com. Tips can be made to Crime Stoppers of Halton by calling 905-825-8477 (TIPS) or visiting www.haltoncrimestoppers.com or by texting `TIP201' with your message to CRIMES (274637). Huge price thaw on NOW 30 to 60% off. For a limited time, enjoy discounts of up to 60% off a selection of our stylish suits, jackets and casual wear. Don't miss your chance to expand your winter wardrobe with Burrows ­ hurry in today! The quality you demand. The exceptional service you expect. For more information, please contact us at 905.842.0232, or info@burrowsclothiers.com Custom Inground Swimming Pools One Company. One Responsibility. 416-410-2066 · 905-319-7502 Serving the Halton-Peel Region 200 Lakeshore Road East, Oakville · 905.842.0232 · www.burrowsclothiers.com