Ex-FBI agent’s source led to Floyd’s arrest

Retired FBI agent Jesse Coleman was watching an NBA playoff game on television at his Maryland home last night when he got a call from Philadelphia - a long-time source who operated in the drug underworld.

"Jesse," the informant told Coleman, "I know where the cop killer is right now."

Coleman, 55, patched his informant through to FBI Agent Bill Shute, who was on the streets in Southwest Philadelphia with Philadelphia police. They were searching for fugitive Eric DeShawn Floyd, wanted in Saturday's murder of Philadelphia Police Sgt. Stephen Liczbinski.

"They were in the neighborhood, they just didn't know the location," said Coleman.

Coleman's informant was able to provide a precise address for Floyd: 5432 Windsor Ave. in Kingsessing.

A short while later - no more than a half-hour - Coleman said Shute called back.

"We got him," he said.

"It was great," said Coleman, who retired in June after working for 32 years in the Philadelphia office. He was known for his ability to develop sources.

Now working for a private investigating firm, Coleman said the tip "was a home run . . . absolutely."

"I'm really happy things worked out."

Coleman's informant, whom he would identify only as a reliable source familiar with the Philadelphia drug underworld, called back later.

"He wanted to know when he was going to get paid," said Coleman.

With a reward of more than $150,000 posted for information leading to Floyd's arrest and conviction, the source could be in for a substantial payday.

"That's why he did it," Coleman said. "I'm happy for him. It will help him take care of his family."