Crime Stoppers names Jerrell new law-enforcement liaison

By Andrea McCann, staff writer

Linton Police Chief Troy Jerrell was appointed law enforcement coordinator for the Greene County Crime Stoppers at the organization's Tuesday meeting.

“I'm glad to have it,” Jerrell said after being named to the position. “I try to help as much as I can.

“I'm gonna try to work with other departments and get them involved.”

He explained that Crime Stoppers is a proven law-enforcement tool across the nation and he hopes other Greene County police departments will get involved to strengthen the local network.

“It's a major component of solving numerous cases in the Linton area,” Jerrell said. “Hopefully we can get it throughout the rest of the county.”

The Crime Stoppers philosophy is based on the principal that for every crime committed, someone other than the criminal has information that will help solve the crime. An anonymous tip line - (812) 847-5463 - is available for use by citizens who have leads on criminals and criminal activity. Crime Stoppers President Kelly Foglesong said rewards - based on the quality and usefulness of the information provided - are available to callers.

Rewards are sponsored by fundraisers, memberships and donations from area organizations, businesses and citizens. No tax dollars are used.

Foglesong said he's looking forward to having Jerrell onboard.

“I'm glad to have him as our law-enforcement coordinator,” he said. “I'm sure he'll do a good job.”

The law-enforcement coordinator acts as a liaison between police agencies and the Crime Stoppers organization. He also assists with public relations for the group. Jerrell replaces former LPD Chief Keith McDonald, who recently resigned from the position.

“Troy has some big shoes to fill, taking over as the Crime Stoppers liaison,” said Crime Stoppers Executive Director Kenneth “Bud” Klein. “Keith McDonald, past liaison, not only started Crime Stoppers, but the public relations he did for the organization was outstanding. He helped with fundraising and was always present at community events.

“I'm sure Troy will do a good job as the Crime Stoppers liaison. He did help us in getting our new Web site - www.greenecountycrimestoppers.com - started.

“He has contacted me in the past, asking what he could do to help the Crime Stoppers. I feel he has the best interest in helping Crime Stoppers to be effective in fighting crime in Greene County.”