A brief history
It was the fall of 2006 when CrimeStoppers launched the Trust Pays program in local public schools. In collaboration with the superintendents of what were two systems at that time — Memphis City Schools and Shelby County Schools — the program was introduced in two dozen high schools.
Later the program grew into middle and junior high schools, and finally into elementary schools.
Students would be rewarded for helping prevent crime and to uncover illegal guns, drugs and other activities. Students would divulge information to trusted faculty members and other adults in schools.
The program was the brainchild of CrimeStoppers Executive Director E. Winslow (Buddy) Chapman. The name was suggested by then-Superintendent of Memphis City Schools Carol Johnston.
Since its inception the programs has led to the confiscation of hundreds of weapons, including guns. Some of the guns were loaded. Drug sales have been stopped and drug caches found. Thefts have been solved and other illegal activities stopped.