|
Silent Witness relies on a partnership between
law enforcement, the media, and the community.
|
|
Law enforcement takes cases to the local media (TV, radio, print) and requests specific information about those cases.
|
The media features these unsolved cases on a weekly basis and asks the community to call Silent Witness with any information.
|
The community (citizens) call Silent Witness to provide information, which is then routed to the case detective or proper department. Callers may remain completely anonymous.
|
|
How do you make sure citizens will remain completely anonymous?
When citizens provide tips, they are given a case number. They are then advised to contact Silent Witness within certain timeframes if they have more information or want to check the status of their case. Anytime they call, they use their case number -- not their name.
.gif "Case Number = Anonymous")
Calls are received at the local Silent Witness tips line phone at 480-WITNESS (480-948-6377). This phone is a stand alone instrument which does not provide caller ID, and conversations are not recorded. Text and web tips are just as secure and anonymous because they are received using encryption technology. Rewards are distributed in a private, anonymous manner to the callers through a third-party.
By guaranteeing a caller`s anonymity, Silent Witness allows the caller to give information in a positive atmosphere without the prospect of retribution. By offering cash rewards for information leading to indictment or arrests, the program encourages otherwise reluctant callers to provide information.
|
How do you pay for all those rewards?
Silent Witness is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and is funded entirely through private donations and grants. No tax dollars are involved.
Please consider supporting Silent Witness by becoming a Silent Witness Partner, purchasing products and services at our Online Store, or making a one-time donation. Your support is tax deductible.
| |
|
