Community, policing partners in Sudbury mark Crime Stoppers month

Community and policing partners gathered at Tom Davies Square in Greater Sudbury on Wednesday to mark Crime Stoppers month.

Deputy Mayor Al Sizer read the official proclamation and dignitaries spoke, then everyone made their way out to the cold and snowy courtyard to raise the Crime Stoppers flag.

Sudbury Rainbow Crime Stoppers is one of 39 programs across Ontario that promotes anonymous reporting of crimes. There are six dedicated boards across the northeast region.

Guarantee of anonymity

It’s the guarantee of anonymity that is key to the program’s success, officials said, since tipsters can provide information without fear of retaliation from those involved in the crime.

Plus, they are eligible for a reward of up to $2,000.

“With our program, no one will need to go to court, and information cannot be subpoenaed,” said vice-chair Louise Essiembre.

“If somebody does want to call in for a tip, all they have to do is call 705-222-TIPS or go online and they’ll be able to submit their tips that way.”

Terry Ames, a Crime Stoppers board member, said the tips have a major impact when they help solve crimes.

“Let’s remember that behind every tip is a story, a family that finds closure, a neighbourhood that feels safer, a crisis averted,” Ames said.

Measure of success

“A true measure of our success isn’t just in numbers but in the lives changed and the trust built within our community.”

On hand Wednesday were representatives from Greater Sudbury Police, the Ontario Provincial Police and the UCCM Anishnaabe Police Service, which covers six First Nations on Manitoulin Island and along Highway 6.

There were also a couple of conservation officers with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry on hand, including a canine officer.

“Anonymous tips turn hesitation into action, action into prevention. Time and again, that quiet decision to report has stopped crimes in progress, helped recover stolen property, illicit drugs and has brought people home,” said UCCM Anishnaabe Deputy Chief Dan Depatie.

“If you remember only one thing today, let it be this: your voice does matter. Your safety does matter, and together we can and we will stop crime.”

According to Sudbury Rainbow Crime Stoppers, in 2025, anonymous tips led to 53 arrests and helped recover a total of $1,098,880 in drugs and cash.

“Behind all these stats is a person that felt courageous enough to make the choice to act,” said Sara Cunningham, chief of police in Sudbury.

“Behind every recovered weapon or drug seizure is a safer street, a safer neighbourhood and a community that refuses to look the other way.”

The theme for 2025 Crime Stoppers month is “Safe streets, strong communities … together we can stop crime.”