Almost 40 Fugitives Caught Thanks to Crime Stopper Tips

ACSO Releases 2017 Crime Stopper Statistics

By Sarah Naron

Messenger Reporter

ANDERSON COUNTY – The Anderson County Sheriff’s Office (ACSO) recently released a report on the county’s Crime Stoppers program for 2017, deeming the program a success and encouraging county residents to get involved in the future.

“Crime Stoppers paid out over $9,000 in tip money for info on wanted person and crime tips,” Sheriff Greg Taylor reported. “Thirty-seven fugitives were apprehended as a result of tips called in to Crime Stoppers.”

According to Sheriff Taylor, the rate of burglaries and thefts experienced in the county throughout 2017 were “at a consistent pace” compared to previous years. Officials with the ACSO were able to solve one percent of the burglaries reported to the department and recovered a total of $630,000 in stolen property.

“(The amount of burglaries solved in the county) is higher than the national average for burglaries solved at 12 to 15 percent,” said Sheriff Taylor.

Taylor encouraged Anderson County residents to aid the department in preventing further burglaries and thefts and bringing those responsible to justice whenever possible.

“Cameras and alarms are always helpful in deterring crime and also in helping catch the perpetrators,” Sheriff Taylor said. “Also, the recording of makes, models and serial numbers on all property is very helpful in helping us identify and recover the property and prosecute the suspects.”

Taylor also recommended that neighbors get to know one another and set up agreements to look out for one another’s property and report any suspicious activity they may witness.

Tips for Anderson County Crime Stoppers may be called in to 903-729-8477.

Sarah Naron may be reached via email at [email protected].