Thank you to everyone who attended our 30th Texas Crime Stoppers Conference in Shertz, Texas, this past October. We had a wonderful time learning about the impact of the 140 crime stoppers organizations across the state. We were also honored that our own Ken Kiel received the Board Member of the Year award from the Texas State Crime Stoppers Council. We are also proud to announce that we received the Best Website Award thanks to our updated website by Presley Design Studio.
30th Annual Texas Crime Stoppers Conference Presenters
A big thank you goes out to all of our speakers, especially our key speakers: Andrea Sparks, Director of the Child Sex Trafficking Division; Lena Sisco, Founder and President of The Congruency Group and former Department of Defense Certified Military Interrogator; and Joan Garry, Principal of Joan Garry Consulting and Founder of The Nonprofit Leadership Lab.
Michelle Sacks, Director of the Safe School Institute at Crime Stoppers of Houston, shared their plans for growth and expansion, as well as the importance of keeping our kids safe. Robert Almonte also shared insights into the use of saints and icons by Mexican gang members and traffickers. Major Manuel Espinosa with the Texas Gang Program also shared valuable knowledge on the most significant gang threats and trends in our state.
We learned about the best practices for taking tips and breaking down tip information from Steve Squier. Steve also led a panel of experts to answer questions for new coordinators. Shelia Moore with Crime Scene Information also shared what happens when a tip is reported, the benefits of using a call center, and how that information is distributed after it is received.
Doug Brodie from the Office of the Governor provided on overview of the Crime Stoppers Assistance Fund, E-Grants, and the application process for reimbursements. Adam Unnasch at DPS, Crime Investigation Division, discussed the Texas 10 Most Wanted Program and how it works with agents and Crime Stoppers Organizations to make our state safer.
We heard a riveting first-hand account of the Las Vegas shooting from Seguin Deputy Chief Bruce Ure, along with the importance of situational awareness and exposure in an active shooter event.
Evening Entertainment with Coffey Anderson
It wasn’t all learning and no fun, however. Country singer-songwriter Coffey Anderson provided live entertainment at the Blue Bonnet Palace while we enjoyed food, drink, and dancing. Our kick-off event at 3 Double-O Nine Restaurant & Bar was also great time to kick back and relax.
Thanks again to the 380 or so attendees and all our presenters. It was an honor to host back-to-back conferences, and we hope to see you all again next year!