New Case in Rewards for Major Unsolved Crimes Program

Another case in Nova Scotia's Rewards for Major Unsolved Crimes Program was announced today, Dec. 16.

The Department of Justice will offer cash rewards of up to $150,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of individuals responsible in the Leonette Marie Purcell of Grand Lake, Halifax Regional Municipality, missing person case.

Ms. Purcell, a 60-year-old homemaker, has not been seen or heard from since she disappeared Dec. 16, 2004 from her Grand Lake home, on Highway 2, near the Halifax International Airport. An extensive search of the Grand Lake area was unsuccessful. Investigators want to identify two males who were seen on a security camera at the Enfield Irving Big Stop, one of whom was seen calling the Purcell home on the morning Ms. Purcell disappeared.

People with information can call toll-free at 1-888-710-9090.

Justice Minister and Attorney General Cecil Clarke said he hopes the program will encourage people with relevant information to come forward.

"The Rewards for Major Unsolved Crimes Program is important because it reminds Nova Scotians of the responsibility we all share in terms of building safer communities," said Mr. Clarke. "It gives us an opportunity to help bring criminals to justice."

Those who come forward with information will be expected to provide their name and contact information. In addition, they may be called to testify in court. All calls to the Rewards for Major Unsolved Crimes Program will be traced and recorded.

The Rewards for Major Unsolved Crimes Program was launched in October 2006 as another tool for law enforcement to use in solving crime.