It's not a new idea, but it's new in Lehi and it appears to be working.
Nine people listed as "Lehi's Most Wanted" have turned themselves in or have been apprehended since the program began the first part of February.
Sgt. Toby Peterson, who is in charge of the "Lehi's Most Wanted" program, said the Web site and publication in the Lehi Free Press have contributed to the results.
"They are feeling the pressure," Peterson said last week. "We've actually cleared off seven so we need to add more."
A few days after interviewing Peterson, two more dropped off the list.
Kelly Wilkinson turned himself into Lehi police after seeing himself in the newspaper. He was wanted for driving under the influence three times, driving with a suspended license and no insurance, and had a $15,000 warrant out for his arrest. Two others listed on "Lehi's Most Wanted" also turned themselves in to authorities.
Ten women and men are listed on the most wanted list online with their Utah State driver license photos, a physical description and what offenses they are being charged for committing. Most are listed for driving under the influence arrests.
Lehi Police Chief Chad Smith has been working on the idea of "Lehi's Most Wanted" for about one year.
"I wanted to give the citizens an understanding of what we go through," Smith said. "It's a great tool. We need their help."
Peterson chooses "Lehi's Most Wanted" by the size of their warrant and by their profile, if the investigations department doesn't have any one they are looking for with felonies.
The man or woman on the top of the list is not necessarily guilty of the worst crimes. As those listed turn themselves in or are apprehended, new entries go on the bottom of the list and work their way up to the top as others drop out.
Residents can see the "Lehi's Most Wanted" list online at www.lehicity.com by clicking on the city government public safety link and pulling up the "Ten Most Wanted" page.
Jacob Evans, on the top of the list, was arrested for driving under the influence and running a red light. The 30-year-old, light-complexioned man is 6 ft. 1 inch high, weighs 200 pounds has brown hair and blue eyes. He has a $5,000 warrant for his arrest.
"The Web site has turned out to be really great for us," Peterson said.
Posted in Local on Wednesday, March 7, 2007 11:00 pm
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