Crime Stoppers has issued a release responding to the negative feedback generated by its Project Anonymous public awareness campaign.
Posters, outlining crimes from the standpoint of anonymous tipsters have been showing up in the downtown and various locations throughout the region.
Ok @CityofStJohns please make this campaign stop. How does this a) enhance the wellbeing of the residents of this city, b) prevent crime, or c) encourage people to report crime? This is based in shame and anger, not city safety. pic.twitter.com/AIiKH6Q1Vu
— Jenny Wright (@JenEWright) May 30, 2019
Some business owners and others have expressed anger and confusion about the posters, while others have registered their ire by tearing them down.
Crime Stoppers says the posters are part of the first phase of its “anonymous” campaign focused on absolute anonymity.
“The campaign was designed to reinforce the message that we all, as citizens, play a role in making our communities safer for everyone.”
-from statement issued by Crime Stoppers.
The campaign started May 29 and will continue until June 21. It includes posters put up in approved locations throughout the Northeast Avalon, radio ads and a webpage.
Crime Stoppers says it expected a reaction and dialogue surrounding the campaign and it was never their intent for it to be used as a commentary on crime in the community.
Phase Two Soon to be Launched
The second phase of the campaign is about to be launched. It says it is not about fear or an attempt to impact the citizens or business owners, but about creating a conversation.
Crime Stoppers says no further statements will be issued or interviews granted on the matter.
— NL Crime Stoppers (@NLCrimeStoppers) June 4, 2019
