Law enforcement vehicle event to help Special Olympics

The public is being asked to decide which area law enforcement agency has the coolest looking ride as a way to raise money for Special Olympics Arizona.

From 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Saturday at the Yuma Palms Regional Center round-about, just west of the Harkins Theater, the Red & Blue Challenge asks the public to pick a favorite displayed law enforcement vehicle – Yuma Sector Border Patrol, California Highway Patrol, Yuma County Sheriff's Office or Yuma Police Department – and leave a monetary donation inside it.

Officer Joe Franklin, of the Yuma Police Department, said this type of fundraiser is done in other communities across the state and country and is a great way to interact with the public.

“It mostly relies on the shoppers who are there during that time, but it is just a really fun event,” Franklin said.

He added that the wellton Police Department won the event last year and the other law enforcement agencies who are participating are hoping it's officers don't have bragging rights two years in a row.

All of the proceeds will benefit the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics, which supports over 11,000 Special Olympic athletes in Arizona. A receipt can be provided for tax-deduction purposes.