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Roanoke police and sheriff's departments prepare for the Torch Run

Local law enforcement will participate in the annual event to raise funds for the Special Olympics.

Local law enforcement  takes part in annual fundraiser for the Special Olympics
Local law enforcement takes part in annual fundraiser for the Special Olympics (WSLS 10 YouTube screenshot)

Local law enforcement is ready to serve

'Tis the season for Roanoke law enforcement to work with the local community. The Roanoke City Police Department and the sheriff’s office will run 7.5 miles for the Torch Run. They will participate in a fundraiser for the Special Olympics on Wednesday, June 4.

In 2023, Roanoke Police partnered with children at the West End Center to build strength and endurance by running together for eight weeks. I saw the efforts on two separate mornings where law enforcement and the kids were running together down Memorial Avenue. This fosters trust between the community and the police.

The Special Olympics will benefit

This time, Roanoke law enforcement will be part of a statewide group of more than 2,000 law enforcement officers who will raise money over eight days by walking, running, or biking about 2,000 miles. The 2025 Special Olympics Summer Games will convene on June 6 in Richmond.

Find out what's happening in Roanokefor free with the latest updates from Patch.

WSLS reports that Tyler Caldwell, who has participated in the Special Olympics Virginia at least 15 times, said that it makes him feel happy that law enforcement is raising money for him.

The Torch Run will start at the Roanoke Salem Plaza on Melrose Avenue and conclude at Famous Anthony's on Challenger Road. The Roanoke Police and Sheriff's Departments should be commended for serving the local community.

Find out what's happening in Roanokefor free with the latest updates from Patch.

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