London Crime Stoppers warns program at risk without stable funding

London-Middlesex Crime Stoppers says it is in need of stable funding, or it may not be able to continue to run. CTV Windsor’s Reta Ismail checks in.

London’s Crime Stoppers program is warning it may not be able to continue operating without stable funding as the volunteer-run organization faces growing financial pressures.

In a rare appearance, London-Middlesex Crime Stoppers board chair Lloyd Stacey addressed the London Police Services Board last week to request ongoing financial support.

The registered charity, which allows anonymous tips to help solve crimes, says it plays a critical role in community safety but is struggling financially.

“This is the first time we’ve presented to the police services board in recent memory,” said Stacey, who is also the organization’s president. “We’re just not getting enough to pay our very basic bills.”

Stacey said the organization raised about $18,000 last year, with roughly $16,000 going toward operating expenses. Crime Stoppers operates independently from police, despite working closely with law enforcement. Stacey emphasized that tips submitted through the program are not owned by police and that the organization does not receive proceeds from seized property.

“The more tips we get, the more successful we are, the more money we pay out,” he said.

More than 1,400 tips are submitted annually in the London-Middlesex region, often leading to arrests or the recovery of stolen property.

London police Chief Thai Truong said the program is an essential tool for investigators and the broader community.

“Without Crime Stoppers, we would be in big trouble,” Truong said. “There are a lot of people in our community who want to help and provide information to assist victims of crime and prevent crime. Crime Stoppers gives them the opportunity to share information while