History

In 1990, the Cadillac area had a marked increase in crime. Concerned citizens and police were interested in creating a program that would decrease these numbers. On April 1, 1991, the Cadillac Area Silent Observer Program was initiated. One concerned citizen, with the help of the Cadillac Area Chamber of Commerce and law enforcement officials started this long-standing program. With a board of directors from every walk of life, the program was on its feet within two months and continues to grow.

Our community is not immune from the increase in crime. Many citizens, however, are not comfortable in getting involved in crime reporting for a variety of reasons. Some fear for themselves and loved ones; many others do not want to testify in court. Silent Observer is designed to give the common citizen a chance to overcome those fears and have a part in reducing crime.

Anyone with knowledge of a person committing a crime or a crime that is going to be committed can call Silent Observer at 779-9215 or 1-800-528-8234. The tipster remains completely anonymous.

If a tip leads to an arrest, the tipster could receive up to $5,000. The tipster contacts Silent Observer back to check on the status of their tip. The Silent Observer board meets the first Thursday of each month to approve rewards for tips received during the previous month. Tipsters receive cash rewards at a drive-through bank.

The Cadillac Silent Observer program has been so successful that other communities have contacted us to get the secret of our success. In the past 24 years, Silent Observer has received over 4,200 tips, leading to more than 1000 arrests. This is a tremendous record for a community our size!

Silent Observer is run by donations only. If you would like to make a donation to our 501(c)3 program, your support would be greatly appreciated.

Please feel free to contact the Cadillac Police Department for further information.

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