DAYTON, Ohio -- A pair of 32-year-old murders is still creating controversy in Dayton. Officials said Derek Farmer, one of a pair of ex-convicts, came to town as a motivational speaker for young people.

Some people call Farmer a cop killer, others say he is reformed and making a difference.

Farmer was convicted 23 years ago of killing a Dayton police officer and a civil rights leader while fleeing a jewelry store robbery. He was paroled after serving 18 years in prison and is now an attorney.

On Tuesday night, Farmer was the keynote speaker at a Black History Month event, sponsored by the city’s Southwest Priority Board.

Outside the event, dozens of Dayton police officers protested his visit while Farmer addressed the youth who attended the event.

Farmer said, “My message is to youngsters here to understand that your faith, hard work and opportunity that you can overcome anything.”

Judy Abshire with the Dayton FOP said,” A Dayton cop was killed and they bring the person that was involved in this murder back to the community to be motivational speaker? That was a huge gaff in judgment in my opinion.”

Supporters of Farmer said he has been reformed and is wanting to make a difference in the community.

According to Dayton Mayor Rhine McLin, Farmer’s appearance was not paid for by the city of Dayton.