The Sarnia Historical Society is still planning to honour Constable Jack Lewis despite having its funding request turned down by the Ontario government.
The society was hoping to use $1,000 in unpaid reward money for the capture of notorious killer Red Ryan to erect a plaque in Lewis' honour.
Lewis was gunned down by Ryan during a liquor store robbery on Sarnia's main street on May 23, 1936 and the reward was never paid.
A letter from Assistant Deputy Attorney General Irwin Glasberg notes "reward money is typically offered for information leading to the arrest and conviction of a suspect."
"In the case of Constable Lewis' killing," the letter continues, "the only suspect was shot and killed in the May 1936 gunfight with Constable Lewis and other Sarnia police officers."
"On this basis, I am not able to accede to your request."
Historical Society President Ron Realesmith is disappointed but says it's still important to recognize Constable Lewis.
"The historical society is 100% committed to erecting that plaque for Jack Lewis," says Realesmith. "It's the right thing to do, and we will certainly find other avenues. For anyone that feels as inclined as we do about this, they're encouraged to get in touch with us and we're going to make this happen."
Realesmith says it will likely cost closer to $5,000 to install a proper plaque at the scene of the crime, the former Taylor's Furniture building downtown.
Anyone interested in assisting in the effort can call the Sarnia Historical Society at 519-491-6361.