Frequently Asked Question
Have questions about how Crime Stoppers Hamilton works? From the moment you submit a tip to the day a reward is issued, we prioritize your anonymity and the safety of our city. Explore our most common inquiries below to learn more about our process and your role in crime prevention.
What is Crime Stoppers?
How does Crime Stoppers work?
Can I really remain anonymous?
What types of crimes can I report?
Crime Stoppers takes information about any crime. When you call the 1.800.222.TIPS number the call taker will ask about the crime and determine the type. When you report online there will be a list of crimes that you can select.
How do I claim a reward while remaining anonymous?
Will I have to testify in court?
What information should I include in my tip?
When you call Crime Stoppers the call taker will ask you questions about your information. If you provide a secure online tip through the Submit A Tip button tip a form will be used to ask you questions about your information.
The more detail you can provide, the more helpful your tip may be. Consider including:
Who was involved
What happened
When it occurred
Where it took place
How the crime was committed
Vehicle descriptions or licence plate numbers
Names, nicknames, photographs, or other relevant details
Only provide information you believe to be true.
Can I check the status of my tip?
Yes. Using your unique tip number you can call the tipline at 1.800.222.TIPS(8477) and ask for the status of your tip. If you provided an online tip you can use your tip number and password, to log back in to the system to receive updates, or determine whether a reward has been approved.
Is there an age requirement to submit a tip?
How can I support Crime Stoppers?
There are many ways to get involved, including:
- Making a donation
- Sponsoring community initiatives
- Volunteering your time and expertise
- Participating in fundraising events
- Helping raise awareness about anonymous reporting in your community
- Your support helps Crime Stoppers continue to make communities safe
Is Crime Stoppers an emergency service?
No. Crime Stoppers should not be used for emergencies.
If a crime is in progress or someone is in immediate danger, call 911 or your local emergency services immediately.
What happens after I submit a tip?
Can I submit a tip online?
Can I receive a reward?
If your anonymous tip leads to an arrest, charges being laid, recovery of stolen property, seizure of illegal drugs, or helps solve a crime, you may be eligible for a cash reward up to $2000. Crime Stoppers does not know who you are. To claim a reward you must contact Crime Stoppers through the online tip follow up or by calling the tipline at 1.800.222.TIPS(8477)
How much are Crime Stoppers rewards?
Can police trace my tip?
Can I submit photos or documents?
Can I submit information about a crime that happened a long time ago?
Yes. Even older information can be valuable to investigators and may help solve cases that remain open or uncover previously unknown criminal activity.
Is Crime Stoppers part of the police?
No. Crime Stoppers is an independent, non-profit incorporated charity governed by a volunteer Board of Directors. While we work in partnership with the community, the media and law enforcement to help keep our community safe we operate separately from police service.