The nonprofit group last week introduced a Web site aimed at both giving and gaining information on local crimes.

The new site includes a most wanted list, information on local investigations and a link allowing citizens to offer crime tips online.

Local police said it’s another outlet for citizens to learn about crimes and make a difference.

“We’re excited to have another tool we can use,” said Oshkosh crime prevention Sgt. Steve Sagmeister. “Not everyone uses a computer and not everyone reads the newspaper. It’s a new way to get information out there, so we hope we can cover some more ground.”

Those who offer tips online have the same protections they would have on the telephone.

The tip area of the Web site is maintained on a secure connection, meaning those who make tips can still remain anonymous, said Steve Herman, crime prevention officer for the Winnebago County Sheriff’s Department. When a tip is made, CrimeStoppers issues a number that’s used for future contact and rewards.

Several Wisconsin CrimeStoppers groups have implemented Web sites to join their telephone services.

Herman said the site should add to the program’s success.

“There are some people out there who don’t want to talk to another person on the telephone about a crime, even if it is anonymous,” Herman said. “People have another option now.”