The cross-burning case still smolders for local law enforcement, intent on catching those responsible for the racial-intimidation incident this past summer.
‘It’s a crime that shocks the senses ? not something that happens in Independence Township,? said Det. Sgt. Matt Baldes, Oakland County Sheriff’s Office. ‘We need accountability, someone to step up and say I did this, and why.?
Baldes, assigned to Independence Township substation, has made the case a top priority since it occured the night of Aug. 13.
‘The investigation has never let up,? Baldes said.
The case has included several interviews so far, some as recently as last week, he said.
‘We encourage anyone with any information to call us, people they’ve talked to and told about it,? Baldes said.
A $1,000 reward is still offered by the North Oakland Branch of NAACP, said H. Wallace Parker, chief counsel.
‘The branch authorized the award to help make sure this does not occur again,? Parker said. ‘It’s baffling why in this day and age it would happen in Oakland County. It doesn’t make any sense at all.?
They encourage federal and local law enforcement to seek the harshest possible penalty, he said.
‘We can’t tolerate that kind of activity,? he said. ‘I’m totally satisfied with the sheriff department’s efforts.?
To report information, call Crimestoppers at 888-887-6146, or Independence Township substation at 248-620-4970. To claim the reward, information must lead to arrest and deposition.