June 12, 2014

DPS participates in Law Enforcement Torch Run

Ten officers with the Department of Public Safety participated in the annual Law Enforcement Torch Run to benefit Special Olympics Illinois on June 11.  The run through Jackson and Williamson counties went from Carbondale City Hall to Rent One Park in Marion.

Participating in the Law Enforcement Torch Run were SIU police corporals Chad Beights, Geoff Geittmann, Brian Murphy, Jason Russell, and Carrie Street; detective Adam Cunico, and officers Nathaniel Chester, Kevin Cox, Tyler Harrell and Matthew Smithpeters.  Brad Dillard, associate director with the Physical Plant Service, Carbondale police, and Illinois State Police troopers also participated.

The Law Enforcement Torch Run is the largest year-round fundraising event benefitting Special Olympics Illinois, and is a way to gain awareness for athletes who participate.   Approximately 3,000 police officers representing every branch of law enforcement across Illinois will carry the Flame of Hope nearly 1,500 miles to its final destination -- the Special Olympics Illinois Summer Games Opening Ceremonies on Friday, June 13, in Normal. Approximately 4,000 athletes will compete this weekend.

This year the SIU Police Department has raised nearly $3,000 for Special Olympics Illinois. SIU and Carbondale police will hold another Torch Run Fundraiser, “Tip-a-Cop,” on June 20.