The Ames Police Department and the Center for Creative Justice have begun airing programs on the city’s cable access channel aimed at apprehending wanted criminals.

The five-minute programs air throughout the day with a format similar to the popular television show “America’s Most Wanted,” said Rory Echer, Ames police community resource officer.

He said the spots have been airing since early October.

“[The television show] was developed by Capt. Craig Reid as part of a community resource program we’re using to bring the community closer to the police department,” Echer said. “The shows depict criminals charged with anything from serious misdemeanors to felony charges.”

So far, the spots have led to the capture of one criminal and the location of another, he said.

“The man we have arrested was wanted for domestic assault and criminal mischief,” Echer said. “A female viewer watching the show identified the man as a former co-worker, and we took it from there.”

This program is only one of many that are being broadcast over the city’s cable channel, he said.

“We’re currently producing airings on traffic stops, domestic violence and the K-9 unit,” Echer said. “We are also working on a show with the Sexual Assault Response Team.”

He said the Ames Police Department is considering competing against other cities that have similar programs.

“Every municipality with a program like this has the chance to enter a spot in a national competition,” Echer said. “We’re thinking about entering a show we did on look-alike guns.”

The shows usually air at 6 p.m., 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. on cable access channel 12.

“Our goal is to bring the community closer to the department so they have a better understanding of why we do certain things,” Echer said. “We are also giving the community a chance to help us lower the crime rate.”