ATF Offers $5,000 Reward for Information on Assault of 84-Year-Old Man

DETROIT, Feb. 10, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) is offering a reward of $5,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the individual responsible for the assault of Paul McDermott, an 84-year-old resident of Detroit, said Thomas Brandon, Special Agent in Charge (SAC) of the ATF Detroit Field Division.

"The citizens of Detroit deserve a safe community. Unfortunately, there are predators whose violent activities threaten our safety, security and quality-of-life.  ATF will work with the Detroit Police Department and our other local and state law enforcement partners to solve this crime and other crimes of violence that cripple our communities," said Brandon.  

On Feb. 4, an unidentified assailant carjacked and severely beat McDermott as he left a residence on Waverly Street between 12th and 14th streets in Detroit.  In the course of the carjacking, the assailant repeatedly punched and kicked McDermott in the face and body.  The assailant also stole a licensed firearm McDermott was lawfully carrying.  The unidentified assailant was described as a tall male in his 20s or 30s.  The Detroit Police have recovered McDermott's vehicle but the firearm is still missing.  

ATF and the Detroit Police Department are seeking the public's assistance in identifying the unknown individual.  Anyone with information is encouraged to call ATF at 1-800 ATF-GUNS (1-800- 283-4867) or The Southeast Michigan Crime Stoppers at 1-800 SPEAK UP (800 773-2587).  Callers may remain anonymous.

For more information on ATF  go to www.atf.gov.

SOURCE Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives