Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation   Stan Florence  Director   Jessica Brown Public Information Director

02/07/12                 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE           

Reward Offered in 2009 Homicide Near Poteau

The OSBI is offering up to a $5,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person(s) responsible for the homicide of Joe Neff, 62, in May 2009.

Neff was the owner/operator of the Long Branch Saloon located just south of Poteau. He was reported missing May 14, 2009, when a bar employee arrived at work around noon and found what appeared to be a crime scene. The OSBI was called in to help investigate.

May 17, 2009, a fisherman found Neff’s body floating in a strip pit located near Pocola about 30 miles from the bar. Neff died of a gunshot wound.

Agents have run numerous leads and interviewed many individuals without identifying a suspect. The OSBI hopes this reward will encourage someone with information to come forward. If anyone has information, please call the OSBI at 1-800-522-8017.