Staff Writer

Georgia Governor Sonny Perdue is offering a $1,000 reward for any information surrounding the murder of a 78-year-old Salem resident.

The body of Arlene Ivey was found in Potato Creek, just off Hannah's Mill Road, Sept. 15.

Since that time the Upson County Sheriff's Department has been working diligently in finding Ivey's killer.

“We hope that this money will help in the investigation,” Sheriff Don Peacock said.

“We are still following any leads that are coming in,” he said.

“We still have a few things going and are questioning people, but there aren't as many leads as before.”

Maurice Raines of the Salem Neighborhood Watch Association contacted the Governor's office a few weeks ago to request reward funds.

According to Raines, the neighborhood association hopes to raise additional funds to increase the reward.

Ivey was affectionally known as "Momma," and news of her death stunned and saddened family and friends.

The neighborhood watch in Salem started because of residents concerned for their safety.

Twenty-eight Salem residents volunteered to be “watch dogs” to help keep the neighborhood safe.

“The beautiful thing about this community is that we come together when we need to,” Raines said at the first meeting.

Residents have continued to question the death of their beloved friend and neighbor.

Ivey's home was found ransacked by a neighbor the morning of her death.

According to forensic examiners, the cause of death was strangulation. Examiners reported that Ivey was dead before being placed in the Potato Creek.

Georgia Bureau of Investigation is assisting in the investigation.

Authorities are asking anyone with information to come forward.