FLORENCE, KY (FOX19) -
As a reward for information leading to the arrest of a suspect for the murders of Bill and Peggy Stephenson expires on Thursday, investigators have released some new information.
On Aug. 29, the Stephenson family announced a $100,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of a suspect. The Boone County Sheriff's Office says they have received an influx of tips, but none have led to an arrest.
Bill and Peggy Stephenson were murdered in their Florence condo on May 29, 2011. Police have the killer's DNA, but have been unable to identify the suspect.
Sheriff Michael A. Helmig and the Stephensons are again urging anyone with information concerning this heinous act to come forward.
Two of the lead detectives in the case recently traveled to Philadelphia to present the case to the Vidocq Society, a group of 82 professional members who bring a
broad array of forensic and other experience to assist in cold case
investigations.
"There was a consensus among the Vidocq members who took part in the consultation that this is
clearly a solvable crime and the unique characteristics of the homicide have
provided valuable information about the offender," said Vidocq member Mark Safark. "The offender likely
made disparaging comments about the victims or related family members immediately
after the homicides when there were news stories. Comments that at the
time would have seemed odd to whoever heard them as they had no context
within which to evaluate the comments. The public should also be
cognizant of anyone talking disparagingly about either the victims or their immediate
family members in response to articles that will appear in the media as we
devote significant resources to the investigation. For example, the offender
may have said in a response to a news piece on the case, that the victims
probably deserved it or they should have locked their doors or been more
careful…something to that effect."
Vidocq works closely with local
investigators and prosecutors to help solve a death or homicide and bring
perpetrators to justice. All work is done, at no cost to victim's families or
law enforcement, pro bono as part of the Society's commitment to public
service. The Stephenson Family is planning to make a donation to the Vidocq Society.
"We're looking for information on anyone that
may have had ties to our area," said Boone County Sheriff Michael Helmig. "This could be a person who visited Oakbrook or the surrounding area that
weekend or it could be as innocuous as teenagers who hang out around the plaza
across the street. Many area high schools
had graduation events that night. Also, anyone who noticed behavior changes in
another since that Memorial Day weekend which could include an increase in drug
or alcohol use, hospitalization for unexplained mental issues, or a general
change in their personality that seems unusual is urged to contact us."
Tips can be made by phone at 859-344-8496 or online at http://www.boonecountyky.org/so/
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