A massive $1.2 million reward was offered for information leading to the capture of Charlie Kirk’s killer. The 31-year-old activist was fatally shot on September 10 while speaking at Utah Valley University.
The bounty grew quickly. The FBI first pledged $100,000, followed by donations from conservative figures. Billionaire Bill Ackman then raised it to more than $1 million. But questions soon arose: could the suspect’s own family claim the money?

Ackman addressed the concern directly. “Rewards need to be paid, even if the recipient is a crook or worse,” he said. However, he added that if the suspect’s father was found negligent or complicit, legal action would block any payout. Ackman also noted reports suggesting the family may waive their right to the money.
Police later revealed it was actually a family friend who tipped them off, not Robinson’s father. “Yes, we will pay the reward if it is earned,” Ackman confirmed.

Do you believe families of suspects should ever receive reward money for turning them in?