Rewards for County Road Sign Thefts, Vandalism

CANTON — In an effort to help authorities fight nuisance crimes such as the theft or destruction of road signs, Van Zandt County Crime Stoppers is offering rewards for information leading to the arrest of people involved in these crimes. The group is offering a $100 reward per tip, plus $50 for each sign that is recovered from the thief or thieves. To qualify for the reward, anyone with information about sign-related crimes can call Van Zandt County Crime Stoppers at 903-567-STOP (567-7867) and give that information without identifying themselves. Once an arrest is made, the caller will be able to collect their Crime Stoppers reward.

“People who steal or damage county road signs may not realize the harm they can cause,” said Andy Flowers, president of Van Zandt County Crime Stoppers. “The lack of a road sign or a stop sign can hinder sheriff, police, fire, or ambulance response and put lives at risk. It also costs the county taxpayers a significant amount of money every year to replace these signs.” According to the Van Zandt County Commissioners, it cost taxpayers nearly $20,000 in 2009 to buy and install signs and posts to replace those that were stolen or damaged. So far this year, sign replacement has cost the county about $12,000, not counting a recent rash of sign thefts in Precinct 3.

Flowers said Crime Stoppers is targeting road sign thefts and vandalism at this time because of the damage these crimes do to citizens at large and to the county treasury. He said Crime Stoppers has an ongoing reward program for callers who provide tips about other criminal mischief and property damage crimes such as mailbox destruction or mudding.

Van Zandt County Crime Stoppers always offers cash rewards for anonymous tips that lead to the arrest of a criminal offender, someone who has either just committed a crime or is wanted on a warrant. By calling 903-567-STOP (567-7867), you can anonymously provide information about a crime. When you call, you are given a special code number. After the crime is solved or the individual arrested, you can use that code number to arrange to collect your cash reward. Crime Stoppers callers never have to give their names or any identifying information.

Van Zandt County Crime Stoppers uses cash from criminal court fines and donations to finance its rewards of up to $1,000 for anonymous tipsters. More information about Crime Stoppers is available online at http:www.vanzandtcrimestoppers.org or by calling the Van Zandt County Sheriff’s Office.