Tex McIver, a corporate attorney in Atlanta who also has a Putnam County home, called on lake area residents to donate to the reward fund as a way to help officials solve the crime.
“We are proud to be one of the first to contribute to Howard Sills’ reward fund in support of his investigation of the two horrible murders at Great Waters,” McIver begins in a letter sent to The Eatonton Messenger.
“One of the many reasons we have done so, has to do with our understanding of how this human tragedy has been received, through our many friends who live in many different parts of America and Canada.
“We encourage all residents of Georgia’s lake region to contribute to the reward fund so that enough money will be available to encourage someone to come forward, giving Sheriff Sills the information he needs to solve this crime, thereby returning our great area to a safe place for our families and protect our economic prosperity, including your property values,” McIver’s letter says.
McIver also says in his letter that potential visitors to the area are not coming because of the Dermonds’ murders.
“This group of friends are very troubled by this event which has manifested itself into a revulsion of our part of Georgia,” the letter, which is signed by McIver and his wife, Diane, says.
“Yes, they are refusing to visit us or enjoy any of the fun things to do in the Oconee area UNTIL this heinous crime is solved and safety assured for all.
“Very few people or even the owners of Reynolds Plantation understand the high level of alarm possessed by those who would consider traveling or moving to this region.
“The same feelings are true even for those who own property here and are no more than weekend visitors. One of our Atlanta friends who have two small children refuse to return to their home at Great Waters until they are absolutely convinced it is safe to do so,” the letter says.