| August 15, 2005 Media Contact: Jenn Meale Phone: (850) 245-0150 |
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ORLANDO – Attorney General Charlie Crist today announced that a reward has been offered for information leading to the identification of the perpetrators of the Christmas 1951 bombing murders of civil rights pioneer Harry T. Moore and his wife Harriette. Joining the Attorney General in making the announcement was Frank Brunner of the Florida Association of Crime Stoppers (FACS) and Juanita Evangeline Moore, daughter of Harry and Harriette Moore.
Anyone with information that would resolve this case is urged to call the Crime Stoppers' Crimeline at 1-800-423-TIPS (or 1-800-423-8477). Callers may remain anonymous if they wish. Should that information lead to the killer, or killers, of the Moores – whether living or deceased – the person providing the tip would be eligible for up to $25,000. The reward money is being provided by Crime Stoppers.
"There is someone out there who knows what happened on Christmas night, 1951," said Crist. "Whether the reasons for coming forward are to clear a conscience or strictly financial, we want to hear from those who can help."
Today's announcement is the latest step in the investigation, which was re-opened by Attorney General Crist on December 21, 2004. The investigation, under the direction of the Attorney General's Office of Civil Rights, has received tips and has been assisted by the cooperation of the United States Department of Justice. Dozens of interviews have been conducted in search of the identity of the bomber or bombers.
"I join with Attorney General Crist in asking that anyone with knowledge of this case come forward," said Evangeline Moore. "I am grateful that he and his office are committed to bringing closure to those of us who have had to live with this tragedy for more than 50 years."
"The Florida Association of Crime Stoppers is pleased to partner with the Attorney General and law enforcement to help solve this 54-year-old crime," said Frank Brunner, Chairman of the association's Moore Committee. "We look forward to receiving critical information through our anonymous tip line that will ultimately make the difference."
Harry T. Moore was Florida's first civil rights pioneer. In 1934, he organized the Brevard chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). He fought for equal pay for black teachers, for voting rights for black citizens and equality in the justice system.
Harry Moore died from the blast while Harriette died nine days later. No one was ever charged with the crimes.
A newspaper advertisement that will appear in central Florida can be found at: http://myfloridalegal.com/webfiles.nsf/WF/JFAO-6F7R22/$file/HarryMooreAd.pdf



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