Victoria Crime Stoppers: A History of Leadership and Community Engagement

Victoria Crime Stoppers was established in 1983 as a visionary initiative by then-Victoria Police Department Chief Kenneth Rosenquest. With the support of the Victoria Chamber of Commerce, the program—originally named Crossroads Crime Stoppers—officially launched in February 1984. Sgt. Larry Luna of the Victoria Police Department served as the first Police Coordinator.

In 1990, the organization legally changed its name to Victoria Crime Stoppers to better reflect its operation within Victoria, Texas. Following Sgt. Luna’s retirement in 2001, Detective Randy Duke assumed the role of Police Coordinator, continuing to lead the program until the department transitioned to a civilian coordinator model.

In August 2005, Holly Sulak became the first civilian Crime Stoppers Coordinator. While she effectively managed the program, by late 2007, it became evident that public awareness had declined. To reinvigorate community engagement, the department reinstated a licensed officer as the Coordinator. In October 2007, Detective Thomas Eisman was appointed to the role.

In September 2009, Senior Patrol Officer Chris Guerra of the Crime Prevention Unit joined the effort, assisting with weekly television, radio, and internet outreach while Detective Eisman oversaw daily operations. This arrangement continued until August 2010, when Detective John Luna was assigned as Coordinator, with Officer Guerra maintaining his role in media outreach.

Detective Tanya Brown took over as Coordinator in September 2013, serving until the summer of 2016, when Detective James Collins assumed leadership. Under Detective Collins’ direction, the program enhanced its community presence by reviving the Crime Stoppers website and expanding social media engagement.

Detective Collins remained in the role until October 2023, when Detective Kelly Gibbs was appointed as the current Coordinator. Under Detective Gibbs’ leadership, Victoria Crime Stoppers continues its mission of fostering public safety and community collaboration.

Crime Stoppers is comprised of diverse, active and dedicated community representatives. Crime Stoppers provides a method for local law enforcement to receive information on crimes. These efforts increase tips, which in turn increase arrests in our community.