For the Democrat-Herald

The FBI is offering a reward of up to $10,000 for new information leading to the identification, arrest and conviction of the person or people responsible for the disappearance of an Oregon girl, Stephanie Condon, nearly nine years ago.

Stephanie disappeared on Oct. 30, 1998, from a home in Myrtle Creek while babysitting for a relative. She was 14 at the time.

The FBI and the Douglas County Sheriff's Office continue to investigate this case, and they hope the reward will generate new tips.

Because the Douglas County Sheriff's Office is working this case as a homicide investigation, it is asking anyone who works or travels through that area to be on the lookout for information that could provide clues as to Stephanie's whereabouts.

In particular, anyone who spends time in the rural or wooded areas of the county, whether working there or doing recreational activities such as fishing, hunting, hiking or camping, is asked to be on alert.

If people find anything resembling human remains, they should carefully mark the location and take photos without disturbing the scene. GPS readings are helpful, as well as the use of cloth or other distinctive markers so deputies can locate the site.

Also, the Sheriff's Office is checking and re-checking leads it has received in the past. If someone believes they have information about this case - even if they have notified law enforcement before - they should call the Sheriff's Office at (541) 440-4450.

Stephanie has blond hair and blue eyes. At the time of her disappearance, she was 5'2", weighed 120 pounds, was wearing Winnie the Pooh pajamas and no shoes. She would be 22 now.

The FBI is announced the reward in conjunction with the annual May 25 observance of National Missing Children's Day.