SCPD Participates in Special Olympics Law Enforcement Torch Run

The Special Olympics Torch Run took place on Wednesday June 13th.  Santa Cruz police accepted the torch from the Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office at the entrance to the Harbor. Seven SCPD officers carried the torch to the County Government Center.  UCSC P.D. Chief Oweis ran with SCPD officers as well.  SCPD handed the torch off to the members of the Santa Cruz County District Attorney’s office at the steps of the Courthouse.

The torch run is intended to bring awareness of Special Olympics programs to the community.  Any and all support from our community for this non-profit organization is appreciated by the Special Olympics athletes and their families.  Because of community donations, athletes do not have to pay any money to participate in the many individual and team sports that are available to them through Special Olympics.   

Officers carry the torch from locations throughout California to UC Davis, the location of the Summer Games.  Special Olympics only allows law enforcement agencies to carry the torch even though other groups have requested permission to do so. This is an honor that our law enforcement profession is awarded and we are pleased to participate in such a rewarding and important community fund-raising event.  

If you are interested in donating to our local Special Olympics athlete programs, you can visit the donation website by clicking here.

The SCPD team (pictured below) included Sgt. Arnold Vasquez, Lt. Bernie Escalante, Officer Joe Hernandez, Lt. Colleen McMahon, Officer Ruben Badeo, Sgt. Mike Harms and Officer Forrest Crowell.