Ferguson Township Police recognize the concern that our residents have for your safety, especially in the aftermath of an intentional homicide in our community.
Unlike other communities, we have very few homicides in our area. Very often there is some connection between the perpetrator and the victim. We have not yet determined whether that is the situation in the homicide of Pine Grove Mills resident Jean Tuggy.
We encourage residents to continue practicing standard, personal and home security measures- keeping your doors and windows locked, using security lights, being aware of your surroundings as well as vigilant. Never, ever open your door to someone you do not know or trust.
The most important measures that law enforcement can take at this time concern the investigation, with the goal of identifying the perpetrator. That is what we are doing and will continue doing until the perpetrator is identified and brought to justice.
Many residents have expressed disappointment that law enforcement has not released additional details about the case. We understand your disappointment, but ask you to understand that it would be counterproductive to discuss the details of the incident in the public venue. These details are crucial to the investigative process. Currently, only the perpetrator and investigators have knowledge of these details. To discuss them publicly would make our investigation much more difficult as we vet incoming information.
We want to assure residents that whenever information becomes known that impacts their safety and their ability to protect themselves, we will provide that information in a timely manner.
If you have information that could be helpful to police, please come forward. You can provide your identity, or remain anonymous. Email Centre County Crime Stoppers to report a tip on this crime to: tip@centrecountycrimestoppers.org. Crime Stoppers Crime Stoppers will pay a $1,000 reward if your information leads to an arrest.
Thank you for your cooperation and assistance.