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The Florida Association of Crime Stoppers (FACS) on Tuesday, June 22, invited State Rep. Kevin Chambliss (FL-117) for a special acknowledgement of his sponsorship of HB 363, The Crime Stopper Bill, which will become law effective Oct. 1.
This law provides additional protection for the information provided by tipsters to Crime Stoppers and further clarifies the role of Crime Stoppers staff and volunteers.
“Any legislation that furthers the mission of Crime Stoppers and further enhances the community’s confidence in the anonymity of the information shared is greatly appreciated,”said Suzette Rice, executive director of Crime Stoppers in Miami-Dade and The Florida Keys. “Rep. Chambliss stepping up to acknowledge the community’s desire for safe reporting of crime, coupled with the efforts of co-sponsor Senator Bean, as well as many other legislators, resulted in a positive outcome for both the community and the Crime Stoppers organizations state-wide. His commitment to public safety is outstanding.”
The acknowledgement reads: In recognition of your dedication and service to the people of Florida, FACS and its member programs. Thank you for being a Champion of Crime Stoppers in the Florida House of Representatives and for sponsoring HB 363. We appreciate your leadership and support for this critical legislation.
To Rep. Chambliss, the award represents an important step towards achieving criminal justice by bringing forth evidence needed to prosecute crime under the condition of anonymity. For residents of his district such as Dorothy Williams, whose 2-year-old son was killed by a stray bullet, the award is a reminder that justice for her late son, Carnell, is on the horizon.
“I want to thank [Rep. Chambliss] for passing the Crime Stopper Bill in memory of Carnell Williams-Thomas,” Dorothy Williams said. “It means a lot to me that my son, Carnell, played a role in helping to get the Crime Stopper Bill passed. I hope it will help more people come forward and solve more cases (see something, say something). Congratulations on your award from Crime Stoppers.”
Rep. Chambliss spoke to the grave condition of gun violence in South Dade and the role that HB 363 will play in seeking justice.
“On behalf of all the mothers who have lost children to gun violence, the countless families who have been victimized by violence and other crimes in our community, I am sincerely honored to receive this reward. I receive this award in honor of mothers, like Ms. Dorothy Williams, whose son Carnell Williams-Thomas’ murderer has yet to be brought to justice.
We all agree that the Crime Stopper organization plays a key/vital role in bringing justice to these families. To be acknowledged for my work on HB 363, a bill I filed, passed, and have seen become law, on their behalf has truly been the honor of my life.”
