A weapons training experience with the Bibb County Sheriff’s SWAT team was among the “adventures” up for bid during an auction Monday at the annual CrimeStoppers Community Luncheon.

Between 450 to 475 people gathered at the Wilson Convention Center for the luncheon that raises money to support the law enforcement, community and media partnership that works to identify criminals through community tips.

Since its inception, CrimeStoppers is credited with making 3,651 arrests and recovering more than $586,000 in stolen property, Board Chairman Warren Selby, Jr. reported. The program serves Bibb, Baldwin, Houston, Jones, Twiggs, Crawford, Monroe and Peach counties.

The luncheon was sponsored by the Rotary Club of Downtown Macon and the Macon Rotary Club, which presented the agency with a check for $90,000 on behalf of all sponsors. That was down a bit from last year’s $103,000 donation, which Selby said included three-year gifts from several foundations.

“We’ve paid out more than $500,000 in reward money in 12 years because of community engagement,” Selby said. The money provided by sponsors will go toward payouts for future arrests, he said.

Through September of this year, the program reports 352 arrests, 674 warrants served, 442 cases cleared and more than $45,500 in rewards paid.

“CrimeStoppers would not work without the help of the community,” Macon police Sgt. and CrimeStoppers Executive Director Robert Martin said during a video presentation.

The program is looking for different channels to help improve the program, including utilizing web-based tips, mobile applications and text messages, Selby said.

“We all truly want to make a difference,” he said.

The luncheon concluded with a video tribute to retiring Bibb County Sheriff Jerry Modena, who received a standing ovation. “It has been 42 years of enjoyment,” Modena said as he accepted a special plaque from Selby. “I will treasure this, thank you.”

To contact writer Danyelle Gary, call 744-4347.