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Text Message To Crime Stoppers Results In 1st Arrest
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Published: July 8, 2008
TAMPA - For the first time, a text tip received by Crime Stoppers of Tampa Bay has resulted in arrest.
Hillsborough County deputies arrested 17-year-old James Todd on Monday after getting a text tip from an anonymous tipster.
Todd, a Riverview resident, had three warrants for his arrest, according to Crime Stoppers. He was charged with two counts of grand theft and one count each of burglary of an unoccupied dwelling, petty theft, criminal mischief, battery, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.
A text tip gave a location where Todd was hiding in Riverview.
Crime Stoppers did initial testing of text tips last year but really started pushing it in recent weeks, said Detective Lisa Haber, Crime Stoppers of Tampa Bay coordinator.
"We're hoping that it gives the community a way to empower themselves, a way to do something about crime in the community without having to worry about any type of retribution," she said.
Crime Stoppers of Tampa Bay offers three ways to anonymously provide information on unsolved crimes and the whereabouts of wanted fugitives – a tip line at (800) 873-8477; www.crimestopperstb.com; and text messaging. Text tips can be sent to 274637, key word Tip155 and the message, according to a Crime Stoppers news release.
Reporter Josh Poltilove can be reached at jpoltilove@tampatrib.com or (813) 259-7691.
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