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Board reauthorizes Big Bend Crime Solvers as county agent for Crime Stoppers funding
Summary
Franklin County extended a three-year Letter of Agreement for Big Bend Crime Solvers to act as the county's agent for Crime Stoppers Trust Fund applications. The Board's approval was contingent on attorney review and carried 5-0. The presenter reported services include 24/7 tip lines, a law-enforcement coordinator and tip rewards of $500–$5,000.
The Board approved a three-year Letter of Agreement authorizing Big Bend Crime Solvers, Inc. to act as Franklin County's agent for applying for Crime Stoppers Trust Fund monies, with the approval contingent on County Attorney review.
Sharon Ofuani, executive director, described the nonprofit’s operations across seven counties and its 24/7 tip intake and reward program. Ofuani said tips are handled through a central law-enforcement coordinator who forwards county-specific tips to local agencies; rewards paid for arrests or prevention range from $500 to $5,000. She told commissioners the organization promotes anonymous tip reporting and provides promotional materials and coordination with law enforcement.
Commissioners asked for local performance numbers. Commissioner Anthony Croom requested that Ofuani provide Franklin-specific data on tips, arrests or cases closed and reward payouts over the last three years; Ofuani agreed to provide county-specific statistics for review.
Board action: Commissioner Jessica Ward moved to approve the letter, amended to be contingent on County Attorney Shuler’s review; Commissioner Croom seconded and the motion carried 5-0. The Board asked staff to ensure the final document reads "Crime Solvers" (not "Crime Stoppers") as requested by the presenter.
