IMPD Homicide detectives make an arrest in 2017 murder

INDIANAPOLIS – Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) Homicide detectives have arrested Demond Bender (39), for his alleged involvement in the murder of Philly Alexander (36) on 10/12/2017.

Just before 11 a.m. on 10/12/2017, officers with the IMPD were patrolling the area when they heard gunfire coming from the area near 10^th and Rural St. Responding officers located a male victim, later identified as Philly Alexander, suffering from apparent gunshot wounds lying on the sidewalk in the 1000 blk of N Rural St. Mr. Alexander was transported to an area hospital, where despite the best efforts of medical staff, he succumbed to his injuries.

Homicide detectives responded and began canvassing the area for witnesses. The Marion-County Forensic Services Agency responded to assist in identifying and collecting potential forensic evidence. During the course of their investigation, detectives developed probable cause for the arrest of Demond Bender for his alleged role in the murder of Mr. Alexander.

On 10/01/2018 the Cuyahoga Metropolitan Housing Authority Police Department and U.S. Marshals located Bender in the Cleveland area and were able to apprehend him without incident. Bender will be extradited to Indianapolis and will face a charge of murder and possession of a firearm by a serious violent felon.

This investigation is another testament to the dedication and commitment homicide detectives have in locating those responsible for the most serious of offenses, murder. Even though the year anniversary of this particular case was closing in, Mr. Alexander and his family had not been forgotten, and Bender was apprehended. Detectives work tirelessly to bring a sense of peace and closure to families impacted by homicides. The IMPD would like to thank the community for their ongoing support and efforts in helping to make Indianapolis a safer place to live, work, and play. The IMPD would also like to thank the Cuyahoga Metropolitan Housing Authority Police Department and U.S. Marshals!

IMPD continues to urge anyone with information on criminal activity to call Crime Stoppers of Central Indiana at 317.262.8477 or (TIPS).  Citizens can also download the mobile P3tips app for Apple or Android phones to submit a mobile tip, or go to www.CrimeTips.org to submit a web tip. You will remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward of up to $1000 if the information leads to a felony arrest.  Only tips submitted directly and anonymously to Crime Stoppers are eligible for these cash rewards. 

A charge of a crime is merely an accusation, and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.