CrimeStoppers supports center

[Source: “CrimeStoppers supports center,”

It has been known for some time that the Iowa City population is fast growing; however, we all may have become complacent as to the generally law-abiding behavior of our community.

In 2007, the residents in a west Iowa City neighborhood were brought up short with a home invasion, burglary and violent sexual abuse. How could this happen in our safe little community?

Shortly thereafter, a group of concerned citizens formed a nonprofit group, Iowa City Area CrimeStoppers. It is a partnership between the community, media and law enforcement, whose mission is to assist in bringing criminals to justice.

Citizens with knowledge of criminal activity may not want to directly provide information because they fear reprisal or are reluctant to get involved. CrimeStoppers’ provides the opportunity to anonymously report information and receive cash rewards of up to $1,000 if this information culminates in an arrest.

We recognize that there may be socioeconomic and racial disparity in our county, but this is an unfortunate national trend. The proposed justice center will go a long way in reversing this trend by providing behavioral health services for those in need of mental health or substance abuse treatment, more space for inmates to meet with family, visitors and attorneys, as well as a library, and adequate medical and recreation facilities.

Placement of the jail facility adjacent to the courthouse allows safe transport from jail directly to court thus more efficient use of deputy time as well as privacy for inmates.

We are asking you to vote “yes” on May 7 to create a justice center that provides a safe and secure facility for all of our citizens — whether they be inmates, police, employees, witnesses, jurors, judges or attorneys — and provide accessibility to those with disabilities. These are all important considerations in our growing retirement community.

Dotti Maher

Iowa City