57°
WESTPORT, Conn. Westport police offers took fundraising to new heights Friday to benefit the Special Olympics during the first ever Cop-on-Top fundraiser on the Ruth Steinkraus Memorial Bridge.
During the event, officers volunteered to defy gravity with the help of a cherry picker while grounded officers collected money from passing motorists. In three-and-a-half hours, officers raised more than $5,500, Lt. David Farrell announced.
"This is the first year this type of fundraiser was hosted in Westport, and the generosity was remarkable," Farrell said. "Unfortunately, we did not anticipate the event would create the traffic delays that it did. For this, we sincerely apologize to all who we inconvenienced."
"It is a testament to the giving nature of Westport residents and visitors that, despite the frustration we inadvertently caused, it did not hinder their generosity. We thank you for your kindness, patience and continued support."
This wasn't the department's first show of support for Special Olympics. On June 8, 11 Westport officers, including Farrell, volunteered to run in the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics. In it, officers spanned Westport from the Norwalk border to the Fairfield line.
The Westport Police Department was one of several area departments that participated in the statewide, three-day event, which raises funds and awareness for Special Olympics.
Click here to follow Daily Voice Westport and receive free news updates.
