SAN DIEGO–San Diego County District Attorney Bonnie M. Dumanis today announced a partnership with San Diego Crime Stoppers for its 25th annual ‘Light the Night Against Crime’ 5k Run/Walk on October 22 at Balboa Park. This year’s race is dedicated to locating Julio Cesar Mendez, who is wanted in connection with the July 29 murder of Sonny Carrillo, a 20-year old college student. Carrillo’s family will be in attendance at the event.
“Our office is proud to be a strong partner with Crime Stoppers for this outstanding community event and their reward programs throughout the year,” said DA Dumanis. “Thanks to their work, thousands of criminal cases have been solved over the years.”
The District Attorney’s Office is providing Crime Stoppers with $50,000 in asset forfeiture funding—money that is seized from criminals and then distributed to various organizations by law enforcement for crime prevention and other programs.
The annual ‘Light the Night Against Crime’ event raises funds for cash rewards paid to people who call the Crime Stoppers anonymous tip lines with information leading to the arrest of felons in San Diego County. Since its formation in 1984, San Diego Crime Stoppers has assisted in solving 4,150 cases including 114 homicides, 41 rapes and 668 robberies.
Crime Stoppers expects more than 3,000 runners and walkers at this year’s event. Prior to the race, local law enforcement agencies will display equipment from SWAT teams and search and rescue.
Those who would like to participate may register for the event at Road Runner Sports on Friday from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. or at Balboa Park on Saturday. The family event will feature community booths, food for purchase and a kid’s fun zone with a rock climbing wall, pumpkin patch, face painting and more.
More information can be found at www.SDCrimeStoppers.com.
