LENAWEE CO. — The Crime Stoppers of Lenawee County online tip program has officially ended.
The board of directors voted to retire the system effective July 31. Tip submissions should now go directly to Central Dispatch or the appropriate law enforcement agency.
Crime Stoppers has operated in Lenawee County for 22 years, offering rewards for anonymous tips. But referrals dropped sharply in recent years, with fewer than five cases submitted annually, down from 10 just four years ago.
Officials say the decline reflects a broader national trend, as police departments now share their cases directly on social media.
With rising software costs and fewer cases, the volunteer board opted not to renew its online platform.
For now, reward questions can still be sent to crimestoppersoflenaweecounty@gmail.com. Phone tips can be made by calling 517-266-6161 or 877-276-8477.
Volunteers plan to wind down remaining operations in the months ahead.