The Crime Stoppers program has helped solve more than 5,000 crimes since it began in 1982.

Lafayette Crime Stoppers spokesperson Corporal Paul Mouton says the information this hotline supplies is vital to local police agencies.

“Our law enforcement agencies that we represent are basically putting a puzzle together, so any bit of information can assist in solving that crime,” Mouton told KLFY’s Carly Laing.

Mouton says 38 arrests were made and 37 cases were solved from the help of tipsters last year.

But many residents are hesitant to report tips because they fear being discovered.

“We don’t want your name, we don’t want your information, we don’t even want to know where you’re calling from. All we want is good details and information that can help solve that crime or find that fugitive we are looking for,” Mouton said.

Once a tip has been reported, callers receive a number and code word.

Since the call is anonymous, it’s the caller’s responsibility to follow the crime and receive reward money.

“If you see your tip, you see that individual has been arrested whether a fugitive or a crime has been solved, call back. A reward will have to be approved by a board of directors and once approved we will pay you out,” Mouton said.

If your tip successfully helps solve a crime you can receive up to $1,000 depending on the severity of the crime.

Tipsters have two years to claim their reward before the money is put back into the reward money fund.

You can also report a tip online or via text.