Using prisoners to help solve crimes

PENDLETON, Ind. (AP) - December 24, 2008

Video spots on unsolved crimes are being shown to state prisoners in Indiana.

The segments are on the in-house, big-house TV system at the medium security Correctional Industrial Facility in Pendleton.

Tom Kern from Crime Stoppers of Central Indiana says the prisoners can phone-in anonymous tips.

When the info leads to an arrest, Kern says the inmate can select someone on the outside for a $1,000 cash reward.

If the program works, it could be expanded to other state prisons.

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