Governor Rell Announces $50,000 Reward

To Help Solve 2006 Hartford Homicide

            Governor M. Jodi Rell today announced she has authorized a $50,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible in the 2006 shooting death of 19-year-old woman in Hartford.

Sara Palenza, of East Hartford, was a front-seat passenger in a vehicle that was fired upon as it traveled along Albany Avenue just after midnight on Feb. 23, 2006.  Hartford State’s Attorney Gail P. Hardy informed the Governor in a letter earlier this month that leads in the case had deteriorated and requested the reward because she and police believed that it may generate new leads.

“I sincerely hope that by issuing this reward it may prompt someone to come forward with information that will help police bring this case to a conclusion,” Governor Rell said. “I urge anyone with information to come forward and help bring a sense of closure to the family of Ms. Palenza, who has waited nearly three years for justice.”

            The reward is offered under Section 54-48 of the Connecticut General Statutes. Under the law the Governor, after a request from the state’s attorney in the jurisdiction where the crime occurred, may authorize rewards of up to $50,000.