Crimestoppers uses Facebook to fight crime

[14th May 2008]

To reach wider audiences with its crime-fighting message, the charity Crimestoppers has set up a page on the social networking site, Facebook.

The Facebook page not only provides information about what the charity does, but also has a live feed of some of its ‘Most Wanted' featured appeals, where members of the public can play detective and pass on information anonymously if they recognise anyone.

Additionally, there are case studies, YouTube videos and a discussion forum, encouraging people to discuss crime topics that have been in the news recently, like gun and knife crimes.

Hannah Daws, Crimestoppers Communications Manager, said: “Social networking sites are becoming increasingly important media outlets for charities as they have the potential to reach huge untapped audiences, especially amongst young people.

“Our mission on Facebook is to tell more people about the invaluable community service we provide. Anybody who has information about criminal activity can pass it on to Crimestoppers anonymously, without living in fear of the consequences. Many criminals exploit people's fear to avoid arrest.”

The link to the Crimestoppers page is: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Crimestoppers/13047522725

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Further information Lisa Gains, Crimestoppers Media Officer, 020 8254 3226/m: 07795 564313, lisa.gains@crimestoppers-uk.org

Notes to editors

Crimestoppers is an independent charity dedicated to solving crimes and taking criminals off the streets. Around 17 people are arrested and charged every day as a result of information given to Crimestoppers. One person every five days is charged with murder. Since Crimestoppers began in 1988, it has received nearly 980,000 calls with useful information, resulting in over 84,000 arrests and charges. Over £100 million worth of property has been recovered and over £148 million worth of drugs. Crimestoppers UK was founded by Lord Ashcroft, KCMG, Chairman of Trustees. In 1988, he launched Crimestoppers in the Metropolitan Police area. Crimestoppers is built on a three-way partnership between the business community, the police and the media.