Crime Stoppers tips helped NMSU Police identify four juvenile suspects tied to winter break burglaries and vandalism on campus

Minerva Baumann, New Mexico State University

LAS CRUCES - New Mexico State University Police have solved a case involving a number of burglaries and vandalism at multiple facilities on campus during the winter break thanks to Crime Stoppers of New Mexico.

Four suspects, all juveniles who live in Las Cruces, have been identified and NMSU Police investigators are collaborating with the New Mexico Juvenile Probation Office to move forward with criminal charges.

Surveillance cameras captured the suspects entering several buildings including the Pan American Center, Fulton Center, Old Field House and Hall of Legends causing an estimated $3,000 in damages. Tips provided through Crime Stoppers identified the suspects.

“Investigators have been able to recover some of the property taken from these facilities,” said NMSU interim police chief Justin Dunivan. “The NMSU Police Department would like to thank both Crime Stoppers and our local media and community for assisting with this investigation and helping to identifying the suspects on video. This is an example of great teamwork and collaboration.”

Law enforcement across the country use Crime Stoppers to help solve crimes by encouraging anonymous tips from the public, overcoming fear of reprisal or apathy, offering cash rewards and using media to publicize cases. The program has resulted in thousands of arrests and increased community involvement as well as reported conviction rates often cited as high as 90–95% for cases solved by tips.

New Mexico Crime Stoppers tips can be submitted anonymously by calling 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or through the P3 Tips mobile app.

Minerva Baumann writes for New Mexico State University Marketing and Communications and can be reached at 575-646-7566, or by email at mbauma46@nmsu.edu.