Community leaders rally to help Crime Stoppers reach $20K goal

WICHITA FALLS (KFDX/KJTL) — The Wichita Falls Area Crime Stoppers could use your help for the “Chase the Chief Armadillo Derby” during 2025 Texoma Gives.

Since 2022, Crime Stoppers has pitted community leaders against each other to see who could raise the most money.

For 2025, Crime Stoppers’ goal is $20,000.

Mayor Tim Short, WFISD Superintendent Dr. Donny Lee, Police Chief Manuel Borrego, and Fire Chief Cody Melton will head to a rally for your donations.

Crime Stoppers Board President Samantha Forester said it’s a friendly competition, but the impact is fierce, especially as Texoma Gives news its end.

“The money we raised goes towards our programs,” Forester said. “They get very competitive with each other, and a lot of times we get some big donations, really down to the wire towards the end of the evening. Because they want to win, they want bragging rights for the year.”

Forester also said it’s all to ensure the community stays safe.

The money raised helps pay tipsters, who provide them with tips on felony crimes. The organization also has a campus program called Safer Schools.

Safer Schools pays people who report inappropriate behavior in the classroom, such as bullying or alcohol use.

Forest said to chase the chief of your choosing, you can either ask them in person for their personalized QR code or find it here.