Crime Stoppers makes awards in Morgan Harrington case

One month after the killer's sentencing, the Jefferson Area Crime Stoppers has handed out rewards from funds donated for information in the case of Morgan Harrington, the Virginia Tech student who disappeared after leaving a concert in 2009. Hawes Spencer has this report.

In keeping with its secrecy promise to informants, the group's treasurer, Fred Payne, revealed little at his press conference.

"We have, after almost 7 years of waiting, decided to make one or more awards."

One recipient may be Karen Monk, who spotted the suspect on a beach near Galveston, Texas.

"I think she has been a real champion."

That's mother Gil Harrington, whose non-profit, Help Save the Next Girl, will also get some of the donated money.

Last month, Jesse Matthew Jr. pleaded guilty and accepted four life sentences for killing Morgan Harrington and, more recently, UVA student Hannah Graham. For WCVE News, Hawes Spencer in Charlottesville.

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PHOTO: Shortly after Harrington disappeared from a Metallica concert, the band donated $50,000. (photo by Hawes Spencer)