PHILADELPHIA — A beautiful work of art was made to remember Robert Godwin, Sr.
Philadelphia Police Department forensic graphic artist Officer Jonny Castro created the portrait.
Philadelphia police posted the portrait of Godwin, Sr. on its Facebook page and said they are sharing it to spread an extremely important message.
“YOU – the public – are the best weapon we have in the fight against crime. Sure, that’s a cliche – but some cliches become cliches for a reason. FACT: Mr. Godwin’s killer is no longer a threat because a citizen picked up a phone and called police.
Every day in this country, individuals like Mr. Godwin are senselessly killed by cowards whose names aren’t worth the keystrokes necessary to type them into posts like this one. Far too often, it is the names and faces of those criminals – not their victims – that are remembered as we see them plastered all over the media.
The sooner those wanted individuals are in custody, the sooner we can stop posting their pictures. Believe us – getting them into custody and off of our pages and streets makes us very happy.
We need your help.
Call it “snitching”, call it “ratting”, call it whatever you want. Regardless of your opinions on the police, please consider putting them aside for just a moment and giving us a call. You can always remain anonymous – and you can quite literally save a life.
Our condolences to the family of Mr. Godwin, as well as to the families and loved ones of victims of violence throughout Philadelphia and the world. We promise to work tirelessly to bring closure for these victims as well as the loved ones that are left behind to pick up the pieces.
Please. We need your help.
Thanks for listening, for your support, and for your help in making our city safe. Stay safe.”
Godwin, Sr., 74, was shot and killed on Sunday in Cleveland. The father of 10 is being remembered as one of the sweetest people in the world who taught his children to forgive.
Philadelphia police said Officer Castro and other officers have put together funds to provide portrait prints to Godwin, Sr.’s children and grandchildren.
Funeral services for Godwin, Sr. will be held Saturday.
