Frequently Asked Questions
What is SWFL Crime Stoppers?
Southwest Florida Crime Stoppers is a nonprofit organization that works with local law enforcement agencies and the community to help solve crimes. Citizens can anonymously submit tips about criminal activity, wanted fugitives, or unsolved cases.
How do I submit a tip?
You can submit a tip in three ways:
- Call 1-800-780-TIPS (8477)
- Use the P3 Tips App
- Submit online at southwestfloridacrimestoppers.com
Will I remain anonymous?
Yes. Crime Stoppers does not want your name — only your information. Tipsters remain anonymous throughout the entire process.
Can I receive a reward?
Yes. If your tip leads to an arrest, the recovery of stolen property, weapons, or narcotics, or helps solve a crime, you may be eligible for a cash reward.
How are rewards paid if I stay anonymous?
Each tipster receives a confidential tip number. If your tip qualifies for a reward, payment instructions are provided without revealing your identity.
Please note: Cash rewards are paid in Lee, Charlotte, Collier, Hendry and Glades counties only. We do not have the capability to pay a tipster outside our region.
What types of crimes can I report?
You can report:
- Wanted fugitives
- Drug activity
- Theft and burglary
- Weapons offenses
- Unsolved crimes and cold cases
- Suspicious activity
- Violent crimes
- Human trafficking
- Any criminal activity
Can I report a crime if I am the victim?
If you are a victim or witness to a crime in progress, call 911 or your local law enforcement agency first. Crime Stoppers is designed for anonymous tips and is not a replacement for emergency services.
Does Crime Stoppers trace calls or IP addresses?
No. Crime Stoppers systems are designed to protect anonymity.
Is SWFL Crime Stoppers funded by tax dollars?
No. SWFL Crime Stoppers is funded through private donations, sponsorships, and fundraising events. No tax dollars are used.
What counties does SWFL Crime Stoppers cover?
SWFL Crime Stoppers serves:
- Lee County
- Charlotte County
- Collier County
- Hendry County
- Glades County
Can schools, businesses, or organizations request a speaker?
Yes. Members of the SWFL Crime Stoppers Board of Directors are available for presentations and community outreach programs.
Click Here to Request a Speaker
What happens after I submit a tip?
Your information is forwarded to the appropriate law enforcement agency for investigation. Investigators may use the information to make arrests, recover evidence, or solve cases while protecting your anonymity.
Why should I use Crime Stoppers?
Crime Stoppers allows citizens to safely help law enforcement while remaining anonymous. Your tip could prevent future crimes and help make Southwest Florida safer.
Am I eligible for a reward if I have already spoken with law enforcement?
No. If you have information that may help solve a crime and want to be eligible for a reward, you must submit your information directly through SWFL Crime Stoppers. Tips already provided to law enforcement agencies are not eligible for Crime Stoppers rewards.
How is Crime Stoppers funded?
Funding for SWFL Crime Stoppers is provided through contributions from private individuals, businesses, fundraising events, and grants. No state or federal tax dollars are used to operate the program.
A unique funding source for Crime Stoppers comes from convicted criminals themselves. When offenders are sentenced, they are assessed several court fines — including a $20 Crime Stoppers assessment fee. That money is sent to the Florida Office of the Attorney General in Tallahassee for administration. Approximately $16 of each assessment is then returned to local Crime Stoppers programs through grant funding.
These grant funds help support the 24/7 operation of SWFL Crime Stoppers, including tip intake, program operations, and community outreach. In other words, criminals help fund the effort to put more criminals behind bars — a win-win for public safety and taxpayers alike.
How is Crime Stoppers Structured?
SWFL Crime Stoppers is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization guided by a volunteer Board of Directors. The Board helps oversee the program’s financial and promotional activities and plays a vital role in strengthening community involvement.
SWFL Crime Stoppers is funded through private donations and fundraising. No tax dollars are used. Reward money comes from donations made by concerned citizens and local businesses.
A community Board of Directors, representing Lee, Collier, Charlotte, Hendry, and Glades counties, meets monthly to review eligible cases and determine reward amounts.
Support our mission by making a tax-deductible donation through the “Support Us” link.