By Tessa Belcher
Northeast News
June 29, 2011

We’ve all heard the saying “better safe than sorry,” but this morning, Kansas City Police Department added an incentive to this saying citizens will actually listen to — money, $1,000 in cash to be specific.

Guns, gangs and violence is a significant problem in the Kansas City, Mo., area.

“It doesn’t matter where you live — it (violent crime) impacts every citizen,” said Jean Peters Baker, Jackson County prosecutor.

This is why Kansas City, Missouri Police with the support of the city council (sponsor), Mayor Sly James (co-sponsor), Missouri Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, U.S. Attorney’s Office and Jackson County Prosecutor unveiled the Gun Bounty Program.

Although it is called a program, Kevin Masters with the investigative bureau emphasized, “Program has a beginning, middle and end. Our hope is that this (Gun Bounty Program) won’t end.”

Here’s how it works: The Gun Bounty Program awards $1,000 to each tipster who’s information leads to the recovery of a weapon, an arrest and federal charges. The Gun Bounty Program is operating out of the Crime Stoppers TIPS Hotline office.

Anyone with information must call, text or email the Crime Stoppers TIPS Hotline. Whichever outlet is chosen will remain completely anonymous.

To contact the TIPS hotline with information via phone, call 816-474-TIPS, text “TIP452” or email at KCcrimestoppers.com.

Each investigated TIP is forwarded to the Tips Hotline coordinator within 30 days and awards are approved by the board overseeing the Crime Stoppers program.

Because the identity of tipsters remains anonymous, you must call 816-474-TIPS with your code number to set up a time and place to pick up your cash. Collection time is valid for up to one year.

“This program achieves results,” said Scott Taylor, 6th District city council member.

In Miami Dade County, 4,400 tips were received, 329 arrests made and many open cases were closed because of the Gun Bounty Program, said Taylor.

Already, $25,000 has been given to the Gun Bounty Program sponsored by the city council and Mayor James.

Even if it gets 25 people off the streets, it’s something worth working towards, said 3rd District City Council Member, Jermaine Reed.

To contribute to the Gun Bounty Program with tax deductible donations or to find out more information, call 816-474-TIPS.