THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1994, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Friday, August 19, 1994 TAG: 9408190593
SECTION: LOCAL PAGE: B1 EDITION: NORTH CAROLINA
SOURCE: STAFF REPORT
DATELINE: ELIZABETH CITY LENGTH: Short : 32 lines
A local crime line that pays anonymous tipsters for information paid off for police Thursday in their efforts to find an armed robbery suspect.
Two callers helped identify the suspect and point police to where he could be found, Capt. W.O. Leary said.
The phone line, operated by Lt. F.J. Kotzian, has played a major role in police investigations this month.
Five of the roughly 15 calls that have come in this year have been made in the last few weeks.
Recent tips from the crime line have led police to a two-year escapee and a stolen boat, as well as the arrest Thursday.
Callers are paid up to $1,000 for tips that lead to arrests, recovery of property or even a new avenue for investigation. Kotzian said most callers receive from $50 to $100.
The money comes from a private pool of donations, and the program is overseen by a board of directors.
Many callers to the crime line say they don't want money.
``They're just doing it out of their responsibility and leadership,'' Kotzian said.
The crime line number is 335-5555. by CNB