CRIME STOPPERS WINS AWARD

VERNON - The Vernon and District Crime Stoppers program has been
recognized by the provincial body for excellence.

The local group received the milestone award for helping police seize
$793,230 in drugs and drug-related equipment in 2000.

Vernon Crime Stoppers president Ken Waldon said the award was for
communities between 20,000 and 80,000 in population.

Crime Stoppers anonymous tips line encourages people who normally
wouldn't bring information to police to do so.

"The information that comes in on a tip may well provide them
(police) with a missing link or it may start them on an
investigation," Waldon said.

Crime Stoppers has helped clear 341 cases since it began in October 1989.