TWO years after her daughter’s case was handed back to the unsolved homicide team, Bathurst mother Ricki Small believes it’s time the State Government increased the reward being offered for information on the case.
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In June 2014, Deputy State Coroner Sharon Freund recommended that a reward of not less than $500,000 be made available for information leading to the conviction of any person involved in Jessica’s abduction.
Six months later, the State Government announced a $100,000 reward.
Mrs Small said that after two fruitless years, it was time the government considered increasing the reward to try and flush out the man responsible for Jessica’s death.
“The coroner recommend a reward of at least half a million dollars, that’s what it needs to be,” she said.
Reward amounts in NSW are decided by the Rewards Evaluation and Advisory Committee who work with representatives from police and relevant government agencies to determine what reward is posted.
Generally $100,000 is a “starting point” with strategic and operational factors determining any changes.
Police Minister Troy Grant said last week that rewards were a valuable enticement for people who would otherwise not come forward with information – a fact not lost on Mrs Small.
“I can’t help but think if Jess’ reward was bigger, someone might speak up.”
Homicide Squad Commander, Detective Acting Superintendent Grant Taylor, said investigations into Jessica’s disappearance were continuing.
“Homicide detectives have been working tirelessly on this investigation and are dedicated to locating and arresting those responsible for her death,” he said.
He said police would continue working to bring justice for Jessica and closure for her family.