JACKSONVILLE CRIME STOPPERS LEADER HONORED FOR DECADES OF SERVICE

JACKSONVILLE, IL — Loren Hamilton, a longtime leader with Crime Stoppers of Morgan, Scott and Cass counties, has been named September's Community Champion in recognition of his service to public safety and the Jacksonville area.

Hamilton has served on the organization's board for 22 years and spent 15 years as its coordinator. The Jacksonville Police Department community service officer plans to retire from his department position next September, although he hopes to remain involved with Crime Stoppers as a civilian board member.

The local Crime Stoppers program traces its beginnings to Jacksonville in 1985 and now serves three counties. Over its history, the organization reports receiving more than 6,700 tips, helping solve 868 crimes and contributing to 2,195 arrests. Recovered property has exceeded one million dollars.

Hamilton has also helped organize Jacksonville's National Night Out, which connects residents with police officers, first responders and community service organizations. He has described the move from telephone-only tips to web and text reporting as an important change in the program's ability to reach the public.

Photo: Journal-Courier, archival image.