DES MOINES, Wash. – The Citizens Committee for the Right To Keep and Bear Arms announced today that it is offering a $5,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person, or persons, responsible for the early-morning slaying of a Des Moines, WA police officer on Wednesday, March 7.
“We are outraged at this brutal killing, and are offering this reward to help bring the killers to swift justice,” said Joe Waldron, CCRKBA Executive Director. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to the officers and staff of the Des Moines Police Department, and especially to the slain officer’s family. We are hopeful that our reward offer helps bring the quick apprehension of the suspects.”
The 33-year-old officer died from gunshot wounds he suffered after stopping four youths, believed to be in their mid- to late teens. One of the individuals reportedly is known to the police and has a criminal record.
The officer was a six-year veteran of the Des Moines department, and the first officer from that agency killed in the line of duty. He leaves a wife and 2-year old son. The Des Moines Police Department was established in 1959, and now has 45 sworn officers.
“Law-abiding firearms owners, especially those in the Des Moines area, are angered over this cowardly act, and we are closing ranks with law enforcement to see that the individuals responsible are punished,” said Alan Gottlieb, CCRKBA chairman. “Nobody wants the killers off the streets and behind bars more than the firearms community, and we are urging anyone with information to contact the police information hotline with tips.”
Kent Police are handling the hotline, at (253) 856-5866.