Tips must lead to arrest and conviction of perpetrator
PHILADELPHIA, August 18, 2022—Mayor Jim Kenney announced that the City of Philadelphia will begin offering a $10,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of any member of the public who fires a gun causing injuries to others within 500 feet of a school, recreation center, or library in Philadelphia. Residents can provide this information by calling or texting 215-626-TIPS.
“It is unconscionable that anyone would knowingly jeopardize the lives of our city’s children and teenagers,” said Mayor Kenney. “Unfortunately, we have seen this tragedy play out in our neighborhoods repeatedly, in places that should be safe and sacrosanct so children can learn, grow, and play. We will not tolerate their endangerment, and we are now offering $10,000 for any information leading to the arrest and conviction of someone who fires a weapon in the vicinity of a school, rec center, or library. We hope that this new incentive will not only help us take more perpetrators of violence off the streets but also act as a deterrent for anyone who may consider committing such an unconscionable crime.
“These are public spaces. They belong to the residents and families who live nearby. We will not allow perpetrators of senseless violence to interfere with the education and development of our city’s children. As we continue to work with law enforcement and community organizations to address gun violence citywide, we encourage any resident with information about heinous acts of violence to report it anonymously to 215-686-TIPS.”
Philadelphia Parks & Recreation continues to work hand in hand with District Police Captains to ensure regular police presence at and around rec centers in high risk areas during hours of active programming. In the coming school year, the Philadelphia Police Department will continue to collaborate with the School District of Philadelphia, local businesses, and community volunteers to ensure that students have safe passage to and from school.
The City continues to offer a standing cash reward of up to $20,000 for essential information leading to the arrest and conviction of any person or people for a homicide that occurs in the City of Philadelphia; and a standing cash reward of up to $500 for essential information leading to the arrest and conviction of a person or people for illegally carrying or possessing a firearm in Philadelphia.
To submit a tip, call or text 215-686-TIPS (8477); all tips can be reported anonymously.
