Gulfport, Mississippi – A unique approach to cracking cold cases is unfolding in Gulfport, Mississippi. The Mississippi Coast Crime Stoppers has devised a creative strategy by introducing a set of “cold case” playing cards. These decks comprise information on unresolved homicide and missing persons cases, with 2,500 decks printed for distribution across seven correctional facilities.

Each deck includes details on 56 cold cases, featuring 20 missing persons cases and 36 unsolved homicides, according to Lori Massey, the CEO of Mississippi Coast Crime Stoppers. The cards display photos and information relating to the circumstances of the individuals’ disappearance or death.

Inspired by the success of similar initiatives by Crime Stoppers units nationwide, the organization hopes to generate leads on long-standing cases. Massey acknowledged that while they are not the initial implementers of this concept, they are the first in the state to launch such an effort.

Noteworthy instances of these playing cards aiding investigations include a case in Minnesota where a missing woman was identified through the cards and two cold cases being solved in Connecticut within a week of distributing informational cards within the correctional system.

To incentivize information sharing, inmates providing tips leading to case resolutions are eligible to receive a reward of $2,500. However, logistical challenges remain in distributing the funds to individuals in custody, a puzzle that the Mississippi Coast Crime Stoppers are working to solve.

Families of the individuals featured on the cards have expressed gratitude for the initiative. Lacy Moran, the daughter of a missing person, expressed hope that this endeavor would bring forth crucial information and potentially lead to breakthroughs in cases that have remained unresolved for years.

The utilization of playing cards as a tool for solving cold cases signifies a unique approach to community engagement and crime-solving efforts, effectively leveraging the resources available to bring closure to families and justice to victims.