Law enforcement to spread holiday cheer during annual ‘Shop with a Cop’ event

(ABC 6 News) – Law enforcement officers will be spreading holiday cheer during the 19th annual ‘Shop with a Cop’ event on Saturday.

Officers with the Rochester Police Department, Olmsted County Sheriff’s Office and the Minnesota State Patrol will be taking children shopping for gifts at Walmart North in Rochester from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Schools identified 65 kids to participate in the event. Each will receive a $110 Walmart gift card to purchase presents. Officers will pair up to shop with the kids and have lunch together. Police vehicles will also be on display.

Rochester Police Chief Jim Franklin says, “Shop with a Cop is a wonderful way to brighten the holidays for local families while building positive relationships with young people. It is such a joy for RPD to participate in this holiday giving tradition.”

‘Shop with a Cop’ is organized by the Rochester Police Athletic/Activities League (PAL) and sponsored by Rochester Police Benevolent Association, Olmsted County Deputy Sheriff’s Association, Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union, Canadian Honker, Walmart and Sam’s Club.