Darien police are now offering a $50,000 reward to anyone who can provide “information leading to the identification and recovery of the firearm used in the murder of Officer [Kenneth] Bateman,” the department announced Friday afternoon.
Here’s the Full Text of the Announcement
On May 31, 1981, Darien Police Officer Kenneth Bateman responded to a reported break-in at the Duchess Patio Restaurant near the Norwalk city line. While waiting for backup, Officer Bateman encountered a suspect fleeing the scene, and a shootout ensued.
Police Officer Kenneth Bateman, killed in the line of duty in 1981.
Officer Bateman was wounded and later succumbed to his injuries. A $100,000 reward is already in place for information leading to the apprehension and conviction of the individual(s) responsible for Officer Bateman’s murder.
An additional reward of $50,000 is now being offered for information leading to the
identification and recovery of the firearm used in the murder of Officer Bateman. Upon recovery of the involved firearm, a forensic analysis will be conducted and the $50,000 reward will be paid upon the subsequent confirmation of its link to the crime.
We urge anyone with credible information about the firearm to come forward, as your assistance is crucial in bringing justice to Officer Bateman’s family and holding those responsible for his death accountable.
If you have any information, please contact the Darien Police Department Detective Division at 203-662-5330. All tips will be treated with the utmost confidentiality. Your cooperation can make a difference in solving this case and ensuring justice is served.