NEWS RELEASE
How far will an Owensboro Police Officer go to support a great cause? According to Chief Art Ealum, the answer is one inch!
That’s because sworn personnel here at OPD who donated $40 for two great causes will be allowed to grow beards (up to one inch in length) throughout the month of November; an obvious divergence from the typical grooming policy.
The two great causes that are benefiting from this month long event are OPD’s third annual Operation Santa which is a food donation program aimed at helping those in need within our community during the holiday season; and Camp K.O.P.S., which is a crime prevention program aimed at allowing local Kids to experience fun camping activities while Obtaining Positive Structure from our officers.
Chief Ealum recognized the enthusiasm that this idea brought to several officers and decided to implement it. But, ever mindful of keeping a positive image of OPD in the community’s eyes, certain rules were applied; such as a one inch length restriction. Thanks to the generosity of OPD members, over $2000 has been raised!
So, if you see OPD personnel starting to look as if they need to stand a little closer to their razors, don’t be alarmed, it’s for a good cause – our community.