Our Team

Jeff Yates- Chairman

I have been with the Cleveland County Crime Stoppers since Day 1 of the program restart in 2022. My favorite thing about Crime stoppers is the interaction I get with the people of Cleveland County and educating them about our program. As a retired police officer, I love it when Crime Stoppers pays cash for a successful anonymous tip that results in an arrest! I feel that people should apply to be Board Members because it is a satisfying and great way to give back to our communities.

Scott Howell- Vice Chair

I am proud to be part of the Cleveland County Crime Stoppers. I am retired as Operations Manager for FMC Lithium Division, Mining/Milling Division Bessemer City and VP of Manufacturing/Sales of Spartan Minerals, Pacolet SC. I am passionate about helping build strong partnerships that will make Cleveland County a safer place for all.

Brad Benson- Law Enforcement Coordinator

I am a dedicated Law Enforcement Officer with over 11 years of experience. I serve as a Patrol Sergeant for Shelby Police Dept. In addition, I am an elected State Board Member for the North Carolina Crimestoppers Association, working to enhance crime prevention efforts across the state.

Cynthia Earwood- Secretary

As a certified mental health professional, I saw the effect of crime on communities, families, and individuals up close. When I heard about the Cleveland County Crime Stoppers board, I wanted to be involved so that the rising crime rate could start declining. Crime Stoppers is a way for the community to take steps to better the environment that they live in and I’m excited to help them be able to access a way to do that.

Jodi Albinger- Treasurer

I am proud to be part of the Cleveland County Crime Stoppers. I enjoy meeting with our board each month to discuss and develop innovative ways to connect with the community. I am passionate about helping build strong partnerships that will make Cleveland County a safer place for all.

Cheryl Yates- Board Member

I have been with Cleveland County Crime Stoppers since day 1 of of the program restart in 2022. My favorite thing about Crime Stoppers is getting out in the community and educating people on how our program works. As a Board Member, you can enjoy many opportunities to meet people from all over the county and participate in their community events while making them aware of Crime Stoppers.

Renee Carthorn- Board Member

I am proud to be part of the Cleveland County Crime Stoppers. I enjoy meeting with our board each month to discuss and develop innovative ways to connect with the community. I am passionate about helping build strong partnerships that will make Cleveland County a safer place for all.

Sherrie Reid- Board Member

I am proud to be part of the Cleveland County Crime Stoppers. I enjoy meeting with our board each month to discuss and develop innovative ways to connect with the community. I am passionate about helping build strong partnerships that will make Cleveland County a safer place for all.

Danny Halloran-Board Member

I am proud to be part of the Cleveland County Crime Stoppers. I enjoy meeting with our board each month to discuss and develop innovative ways to connect with the community. I am passionate about helping build strong partnerships that will make Cleveland County a safer place for all.

Sherry Yocum- Board Member

I am proud to be part of the Cleveland County Crime Stoppers. I enjoy meeting with our board each month to discuss and develop innovative ways to connect with the community. I am passionate about helping build strong partnerships that will make Cleveland County a safer place for all.

David Vaughn- Board Member

I am proud to be part of the Cleveland County Crime Stoppers. I enjoy meeting with our board each month to discuss and develop innovative ways to connect with the community. I am passionate about helping build strong partnerships that will make Cleveland County a safer place for all.

David Bridges- Board Member

As I entered into semi-retirement, I wanted to serve my community in ways to make it safer and better for current generations. Cleveland County Crime Stoppers is a good way to serve.

Austin Surratt- Board Member

I am a Criminal Investigation’s Detective for Shelby Police Department. Previously I was a Patrol Officer for Shelby Police Department. I became a Board Member for the Cleveland County Crime Stoppers in 2024 to make a positive impact outside of a Law Enforcement role. As a Board Member, I am able to meet some awesome people that really care about our community.