House approves Gillen measure honoring Crime-Stopper Program
On Dec. 5 the state House in Harrisburg approved a resolution introduced by state Rep. Mark Gillen (R-Berks/Lancaster) recognizing Crime Alert Berks County as the No. 1 crime-stopper program in Pennsylvania for the past 14 years.
“Crime Alert Berks County is a tremendous asset for our community,” Gillen said. “We’re really blessed to have this resource working with local law enforcement officials to solve crimes, apprehend criminals and promote justice.”
Founded in August 1998, Crime Alert Berks County is a volunteer organization that encourages citizens in Berks County to provide tips to law enforcement officials and provides a reward of up to $10,000. Informational tips submitted through the program led to 661 arrests according to the organization’s website at www.AlertBerks.org. The organization paid out more than $470,000 in rewards to tipsters.
“The nearly half-a-million dollars the organization has paid out in rewards is a testament to the quantity and quality of information the program provides to law enforcement officials,” Gillen said. “My resolution calls attention to this important program, increases awareness so other communities might consider establishing a similar system, and encourages Pennsylvanians to support local organizations like Crime Alert Berks County.”
Crime Alert Berks County is financially supported by a diverse group of local individual donors and contributing organizations.
Residents interested in submitting a crime tip may call Crime Alert Berks County by dialing 1-877373-9913, texting 847411 and starting the message with the word “ALERTBERKS” prior to typing the tip, or by downloading the Crime Alert Berks County app on their smart phones.
Crime Alerts Berks County founder Barry Rohrback, member Ron Dunkleberger and Wyomissing Police Chief Jeff Biehl were recognized in the state House when Gillen’s resolution was considered.
Gillen’s House Resolution 615 was unanimously approved in the House by a vote of 189-0.