Rewards for Major Unsolved Crimes Program Launched

The Department of Justice is offering cash rewards of up to $50,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of individuals responsible for specified major unsolved crimes.

Starting today, Oct. 25, police agencies across the province are invited to refer cases to the province's Rewards for Major Unsolved Crimes Program. A case will remain in the program for as long as requested by the police agency.

"The Rewards for Major Unsolved Crimes Program is another tool law enforcement can use in their efforts to solve crimes," said Premier Rodney MacDonald. "It is part of government's commitment to building safer, stronger communities in Nova Scotia."

Any member of the public who has information surrounding one of the cases in the program can call a toll-free line. An individual coming forward with information will be expected to provide their name and contact information. In addition, this person may also be called to testify in court. All calls to the Rewards for Major Unsolved Crimes Program will be traced and recorded.

"I hope that this program will encourage individuals who may have pertinent information to come forward," said Murray Scott, Minister of Justice. "Through this program, we hope we can help ease some of the uncertainty and grief faced by victims' families and friends."

Under this program, a major unsolved crime is defined as an unsolved homicide, found unidentified human remains where there are suspicious circumstances and missing persons cases where there are suspicious circumstances.

"Cases like these are not only frustrating for investigators, but can be emotionally challenging to the families and friends who need emotional closure for loved ones," said chief superintendent Tom Bennett, Nova Scotia RCMP (H Division). "It is important for people to realize their assistance won't just benefit police in closing an unsolved case, it will ease the pain and grief of people the victims have left behind."

The Department of Justice will maintain a website containing the details of cases included in the program. The website address is www.gov.ns.ca/just .

"The province of Nova Scotia is not unlike other provinces in that we have a number of high-profile homicides and missing persons files which remain unsolved. In many cases, the investigation has reached a plateau. It is our hope that the rewards program will give people the incentive to come forward with that one missing piece of the puzzle that would allow police to further the investigation," said chief Frank Beazley of Halifax Regional Police.

If any person has information about a major unsolved crime, they are invited to call toll free 1-888-710-9090.