ATLANTA — The Putnam County Sheriff is asking for donations to create a large reward fund in an effort to solve the killing of Russell and Shirley Dermond.
Channel 2 investigative reporter Mark Winne obtained a letter signed by Putnam County Sheriff Howard Sills that states "for the first time in my 40-year career I am asking for public donations for a reward."
Sills said Rabun Neal, the president of Reynolds Plantation, has already pledged $30,000 to the reward fund but he hopes others will contribute. Another $13,000 has been promised from local businesses.
"Bottom line, somebody knows something. I've found criminals are not that honorable," Sills told Channel 2's Richard Elliott.
Deputies say someone killed and beheaded 88-year-old Russell Dermond on May 2 at his home in Great Waters Reynolds Plantation. Fishermen discovered the body of 87-year-old Shirley Dermond two weeks later in Lake Oconee.
"We're 26 days now from the time of the crime," said Sills. "I do think it's time."
Sills said most killings involve some kind of criminal activity but it doesn't appear that's the case in the Dermond murder.
"I hope you will follow Reynolds' lead and add to our effort," Sills said in the letter to residents.
Channel 2's Richard Elliott asked some Putnam county residents what they thought of the donation request. Most liked the idea and said they'd contribute.
"I think that family needs closure," said one resident.
"I want the guys caught. It's kind of dangerous to have them around; scares my wife," said resident Sven Granlund.
The sheriff said any contributions will be tax deductible. They can be made at any brand of The Peoples Bank.
Anyone with information on this case is asked to contact the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office at 706-485-8557.
WSBTV
