The family of Derrick Booth Jr. is encouraging others to come forward if they have any knowledge of recent unsolved murder cases in Peoria. Manual Academy Coach Derrick Booth Sr. and his wife, State Representative Jehan Gordon-Booth say witnesses to their son’s death made an arrest and conviction possible.
Booth Sr. says the families of recent murder victims, like 12-year old Demarcus Payne, also deserve justice.
“If you’re a witness or you have information concerning these murders and you don’t come forward, I would dare say to you today that the bloods of all of those victims are on your hands as well.”
Representative Gordon-Booth says she’s working with the Illinois Attorney General’s Office to better protect those who come forward in unsolved crimes. Part of the measure could include setting aside financial resources to move witnesses out of their neighborhoods. Gordon-Booth says many people don’t come forward in unsolved cases because of fear of retaliation.
“And this just isn’t a Peoria issue. This happens everywhere. Witnesses often don’t come forward in cases because of this very issue. They don’t want to go back to living where they lived unfortunately after they’ve been a hero.”
Gordon-Booth says there also needs to be more praise for individuals who help police identify suspects. Peoria County State’s Attorney Jerry Brady says he's also working on ways to be proactive in ensuring the safety of witnesses.