ALEXANDRIA, La. (7/30/2025) – Cenla Crime Stoppers hosted a news conference in Alexandria today to promote its anonymous tip line and encourage community members to take an active role in crime prevention.
The event opened with remarks from Roosevelt Johnson, President of the Cenla Crime Stoppers Board and former Alexandria City Councilman, who welcomed attendees and reinforced the organization’s mission: empowering residents to report crime without fear of retaliation. The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance and a prayer led by Pastor Joshua Joy Dara, Sr., who delivered a passionate call for unity and action.
“Thank you for inviting me to come. This is a very important matter to us. We live in a community, we have to look out for one another, and nobody will do it for us. We have to do it for ourselves. I like the idea of, if you see something, say something. God gave us eyes to see and a mouth to talk. Do you know, if we all get involved, we can really put a stop to crime? Let’s do it. God bless you,” Pastor Dara said.
Speaker Repeatedly Emphasized
Speakers repeatedly emphasized that tips to Crime Stoppers are anonymous, confidential, and protected. The hotline, 318-443-7867 (443-STOP), is a tool for residents to safely share information that could help solve crimes or prevent future ones.
Among those speaking was Willard “Bubba” McCall, President of the Acadian Village Neighborhood Group and a Rapides Parish School Board Member. McCall encouraged neighborhoods to organize, share information, and use the tip line to help law enforcement work more effectively.
Additional speakers included Pastor Frank Jackson, who urged action through the three E’s: education, involvement, and suppression. Several board members also spoke about community responsibility, youth engagement, and trust-building with law enforcement.
The event concluded with a closing prayer and a strong message: public safety begins with participation.
As a community platform, UrbanCast supports the mission of Cenla Crime Stoppers and recognizes the dedication of law enforcement, especially amid ongoing staffing challenges of some departments. We believe that building a safer city begins with trust, transparency, and shared responsibility, values we’re committed to upholding alongside those working for the good of Central Louisiana.
Tip Line: 318-443-7867
Message: If you see something, say something.
