News & Announcements

The Oxford Police Department led the way Thursday, May 15, for the annual Alabama Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics. The run has become a tradition for officers around the nation as they use their salute during Law Enforcement Appreciation Week to once again give back to their communities.

OPD officers were joined by those of other local area law enforcement agencies to carry the “Flame of Hope” for a quick sprint around the city’s Main Street district. They were joined by several supporters and many of those who benefit from the work of the Special Olympics.

The run serves to raise awareness for the Special Olympics and as a prelude to the Alabama state games which begin May 17 in Troy.

Bob Copus, law enforcement liaison for Special Olympics Alabama, himself a retired police officer, said the run is a way to make communities aware of the Special Olympics.

“Law enforcement officers are the guardians of the ‘Flame of Hope,’” Copus said as he asked Oxford Police Chief Bill Partridge to do the honors of lighting the torch.

“We are honored to host this every year,” Partridge said.

For other ways to support the Special Olympics, visit their website at support.specialolympcs.org/alabama.