Crime Stoppers: Crime of the Week

Crime Stoppers is drawing attention this week to its ongoing efforts to address the fentanyl crisis, announcing a minimum reward of $1,500 for information that leads to the arrest of individuals dealing the drug. The initiative is part of a broader campaign aimed at reducing the presence of fentanyl in the community and supporting law enforcement efforts to combat illegal narcotics activity.

Data from the Illinois Department of Public Health shows that overdose deaths have generally trended upward since 2013. However, more recent figures indicate a shift. In 2023, Illinois recorded an 8.3 percent decline in overall drug overdose deaths, with fatalities involving synthetic opioids decreasing by 9.5 percent. Local data reflects a similar pattern.

Sangamon County saw a decline in overdose deaths for the first time in seven years, with 80 accidental overdose deaths reported last year compared to 90 the previous year. Of those 80 deaths, 24 involved fentanyl.

Crime Stoppers officials say the reduction highlights the importance of continued collaboration between law enforcement agencies and community partners. The organization emphasized that efforts to remove fentanyl from local communities remain a priority and that public involvement plays a key role in those efforts.

Residents with information about fentanyl activity or any other crime are encouraged to submit tips anonymously. Tips can be provided by calling Crime Stoppers at 217-788-8427, submitting information online, or using the P3 mobile app. Individuals whose tips lead to an arrest may be eligible for a cash reward of up to $2,500.

Remember: Crime Stoppers only wants your information, not your name.