SAN DIEGO (CBS 8) – A lot of times at the end of crime stories, we'll ask you to call San Diego County Crime Stoppers if you have any information on a case. Over the years, that organization has helped solve thousands. Now it's celebrating its 30th anniversary.
When it comes to cases cracked, the numbers are amazing. But to really appreciate all Crime Stoppers has done, you have to know the stories behind those cases.
It was July 2006 when Dayna Herroz's daughter and grandson were found murdered. The baby boy was just 10 months old, and the investigation seemed to be going nowhere.
"There had been silence for three months, and we didn't know if anyone was working on the case. We felt like perhaps they were forgotten," Dayna said.
But it was Crime Stoppers that was the first to come to her side. Explaining the lengthy investigation process and offering comfort through it.
"That was the first time they were publically recognized. It was the first time I felt like somebody cared, and I wanted to be a part of that organization," she said.
An arrest finally came -- it was the baby boy's father and he would get two life sentences. A conviction didn't bring back her loved ones, but just like so many others, it helped in the healing.
"It's a small measure of comfort when you get justice. 40 it doesn't change your reality at all, you still live without your loved ones. But you still have that small measure of justice where you can learn to move on to the journey of living again," Dayna said.
And in her journey, Dayna has gone from victim, to board member of Crime Stoppers.
"I believe in Crime Stoppers with all my heart. I know what they can do, and I know what it means to the families," she said.
And it's that kind of passion that makes Crime Stoppers what it is.
"We're not going anywhere. And if you're a criminal, we'll get you. One day or another, we will get you," Dayna said.
In addition to all the cases it's help solve, San Diego Crime Stoppers has also helped recover over $19 million in stolen property.
