But the crime computer isn't the only tool used to catch offenders. Senate Bill 121, which took effect Nov. 19, prohibits anyone with an outstanding traffic warrant from renewing his or her vehicle registration. License bureaus now refuse annual registration stickers to people wanted on traffic offenses. State Sen. Gary Suhadolnik, R-24, of Strongsville, who sponsored the bill, said the system offers a less costly way of nabbing fugitives than sending police officers to track them down. Other efforts are also effective, police say.
Some departments run an aggressive traffic patrol, in part, to chance upon outstanding warrants.
Parma hopes to shrink its wanted list with a special warrant unit, made up of retired police officers, next year. The officers would work as bailiffs of the Parma Municipal Court to serve warrants to people who failed to appear in court or pay fines. Crime Stoppers, a privately funded organization that offers rewards to informants who provide tips about crimes or suspects' whereabouts, is also an effective means of locating fugitives, police say. Police departments throughout Cuyahoga County provide information about wanted felony suspects to Crime Stoppers, which publishes their photos on posters, according to Cleveland Police Sgt. Daniel Hayes, who coordinates the program.