Story by Michelle Hawks and Destinee Marking, Staff Writers

The Murray Calloway County Crime Stoppers recently implemented a new system for rewarding those who have information that helps local law enforcement solve crimes.

Detective Michael Weatherford said in the past, they have given rewards; however, the newly implemented pay scale will provide a uniform reward system and let people know ahead of time how much they can earn by giving the police department a successful tip.

Weatherford said an individual who provides information that helps solve a crime or leads to an arrest will be rewarded with a check after approval from the Crime Stoppers committee. The amount varies by the severity of the crime.

The pay scale is as follows:

Bench Warrant: $50

Misdemeanor: $100

Class D Felony: $250

Class C Felony: $500

Class B Felony: $750

Class A Felony: $1,000

The money for the rewards primarily comes from court costs. Weatherford said for more serious crimes where the community is demanding justice, community members and business leaders may donate additional funds.

Weatherford said the safety of the community depends on the members reporting things they see and hear.

“The police can’t be everywhere,” Weatherford said.

He said said any individual providing information will remain anonymous.

In the future, Weatherford said he hopes there will be a text tip line.

Community members are encouraged to attend Crimestoppers meetings, which are held on the second Wednesday of each month. The meetings take place at Pagliai’s at 11:30 a.m.

Anyone with information can call (270) 753-9500 or send a private message to Crimestoppers’ Facebook page.