Local law enforcers carry torch for Special Olympics

Law enforcement officials from Eastern Connecticut State University’s Department of Public Safety, Connecticut state troopers, and the Willimantic Police Department (WPD) participated in the annual Law Enforcement Torch Run on June 6, a statewide initiative supporting Special Olympics athletes and promoting community involvement and inclusion. The local division of the event took participants on a course through the Eastern campus.

According to WPD Lieutenant Joshua Clark, police officers across the state have been running to raise awareness and funds for Special Olympics athletes for more than 20 years. Eastern’s portion of the route commenced at the public safety building, through campus, and onto Bloomfield. 

“Law enforcement across Connecticut takes part in carrying the torch from town to town,” said Clark. “Sometimes we’re joined by the Olympians themselves and we run side by side with them. That’s what this is really about: awareness, inclusion, and support.” 

“This torch run is important to recognize all these athletes,” said WPD Chief Fabian Silva. “They need to know that we’re a community and that our primary goal as officers is to support them.  

“We believe in the cause of supporting people with disabilities. Law enforcement has their back, just like they support us.” 

Campus police Lieutenant Edwin Villanueva explained that the primary incentive for Eastern’s participation is community involvement beyond the regular parameters of public service. 

“It’s always about community, especially with police departments,” said Villanueva. “We stress community relations because we want to make sure every part of the community is helped. ... Law enforcement loves challenge, and the Special Olympics represents challenge, so together, they’re a natural match.”  

He continued: “This is our chance to show our community and these athletes that we’re with them in the causes they care about. We have a lot of support from the local community, and we want to reciprocate that.” 

WPD Officer Brooke Lussier underscored the importance of police officers consistently involving themselves in community efforts that allow them to interact directly with civilians. 

“Events like these are so important, especially from a police perspective,” said Lussier. “It’s about being involved in the community and supporting athletes with disabilities.  

“You see the smiles on their faces, and that’s what matters. These events help raise money and let them go out and compete.” 

Connecticut State Trooper Megan Lung added, “It’s important to learn how to interact with people who may have difficulty communicating the way we normally do. It helps us respond better during incidents and be more understanding.  

“It’s important to raise awareness and get people involved, whether they’re community members or the ones supporting their community.”