Reward Increases in Somer's Case, New Events Scheduled

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- The number of tips called in about the Somer Thompson case has reached 2,600. Agents from the FBI, Florida Department of Law Enforcement and the U.S. Marshals continue to work on leads.

Clay County Sheriff Rick Beseler met with a crew from the television show, "America's Most Wanted" today, according to Mary Justino, the Clay County Sheriff's Office public information officer. They are developing a presentation that will air nationally Saturday night.

Officials hope the show will bring additional leads; meanwhile, the tips line remains open and manned 24/7.

The total reward offered for information that leads to the arrest/conviction of Somer's killer now stands at $45,000.

Seven-year-old Somer disappeared Oct. 19 while walking home from Grove Park Elementary School in Orange Park. After a tremendous community response and search, her body was found two days later by police at a Georgia landfill. She was buried Tuesday.

HOW TO HELP

There is an account at VyStar Credit Union for donations to the Thompson family. The account number is 0702794000.

EVENTS

• Pump It Up of Jacksonville will host a benefit "jump" to raise funds to support the Thompson family. The event will be held November 3, from 3:15 to 6:15 p.m. It is open to the public, and cash and checks will be accepted.
• A motorcycle-ride fundraiser at 11 a.m. Nov. 8, starting at Love to Ride, 3275-3 Hwy. 17 N., Green Cove Springs. The cost is $10 per person.

REWARD

• The Justice Coalition has set up an account for donations to a reward fund for anyone providing information that leads to the arrest and conviction of whoever is responsible for the murder of Somer. If you want to donate, go to Ameris Bank at 888 Lane Ave., or at 4835 Town Center Parkway, both in Jacksonville, and give account number 3123504437. Donors can also call the Justice Coalition at  904-783-6312  . The reward stands right now at $45,000.
• CrimeStoppers is offering a $5,000 reward for an arrest also; to donate to that fund, call 866-845-TIPS.

For complete coverage on the Somer Thompson case, CLICK HERE.

To participate in a discussion about Somer on Moms Like Me, CLICK HERE.

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