Manhattan PD To Participate In Illinois Torch Run

MANHATTAN, IL — Officers of the Manhattan Police Department are scheduled to participate in the 2022 Law Enforcement Torch Run, and they are inviting the public to come join them.

The run is scheduled for June 13. Manhattan police officers and members of the community should meet by 1:40 p.m. at Berkot's Super Foods parking lot, 100 Market Place in Manhattan, to sign waivers and take photos, according to the Manhattan Police Department. Bike riders are also welcome to participate.

The Will County Sheriff's Department is scheduled to pass off the torch to Manhattan PD at approximately 1:50 p.m. From there, participants will escort the torch on a 1.2-mile route to the Manhattan Park District building, 397 S. State St.

Torch Run T-shirts and hats are for sale at the Manhattan Police Department.

The Law Enforcement Torch Run benefits Special Olympic Illinois' athletes.

The Law Enforcement Torch Run includes an annual state-wide relay conducted by officers representing every branch of law enforcement within the state, as well as federal departments, according to a news release from Manhattan PD.

Approximately 3,000 officers carry the Flame of Hope nearly 1,500 miles, running through thousands of Illinois communities via 23 different routes to its final destination: the Opening Ceremony of the Special Olympics Illinois Summer Games in Normal June 17-19.

The Manhattan PD participates in several other Torch Run events, including the Polar Plunge and Dunkin’ Coffee for Champions events.

Those interested in participating should contact Officer Shannon Beauchamp at sbeauchamp@villageofmanhattan.org, or call (815) 478-4408.