The pot of reward money offered to anyone who provides information leading to the arrest and conviction of a Chicago police officer's killer has increased to $13,000.
The Rev. Ira J. Acree, of Greater St. John Bible Church, said Saturday that ministers and community leaders had gathered another $2,000 in reward money. They pleaded for help from the community to find those who had a hand in Officer Clifton Lewis' death.
“We are appealing to the public to not honor the ‘Code of Silence’ that only gives cover to criminals,” said Acree. "We are asking the public to call 911 if they know the identity of the shooters, and we are urging them to work with the police."
Lewis was working his part time job at the M&M Quick Foods, at 1201 N. Austin St., on Thursday night when two masked men walked in to rob the place. Lewis was shot in the head almost immediately, police Supt. Garry McCarthy said during a Friday press conference.
"He is my very close friend. He is nice customer, and he always helped the people and everything. That's all I can say," the store's manager said Saturday, overcome by grief.
The Chicago Police Memorial Foundation initially offered a $10,000 reward. Another group chipped in $1,000. Tipsters should call 888-YPO-SHOT.
The 6 foot, 5 inch tall Lewis had eight years of service with the Chicago Police Department. He'd earned 81 commendations during his time with the force.
He asked his longtime girlfriend to marry him just four days before his death, on Christmas Day. She said yes.
Lewis also leaves behind an 11-year-old daughter.
"I love him so much and I miss him being here," the girl, Simone Lewis, through tears.
