Barrington Police Chief John LaCross is praising the work of two officers this holiday season.
Det. Ben Ferreira and Patrolman Josh Melo have organized a special Toys for Tots toy drive in town …
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Barrington Police Chief John LaCross is praising the work of two officers this holiday season.
Det. Ben Ferreira and Patrolman Josh Melo have organized a special Toys for Tots toy drive in town for the last few years, and this year delivered dozens and dozens of new toys to Rhode Island children in need.
"I just think the compassion displayed by those officers is outstanding," said Chief LaCross. "They did this all on their own."
Det. Ferreira and Officer Melo were searching for a way to connect with the community a few years back when they settled on organizing a toy drive. They coordinated with the Toys for Tots campaign, which is run through the US Marine Corp.
Over the years, the local toy collection effort has grown, and this year, the police officers were stunned by the number of toys that were donated.
"We even had a $100 donation," said Det. Ferreira.
The two officers collected toys at the station on Federal Road and held special events outside the Shaw's Supermarket in the Barrington Shopping Center and at the Barrington Glows tree lighting event at the town hall. The officers let children sit inside a cruiser and handed out stickers of police patches to the youngsters.
"The interaction with the community was great," said Det. Ferreira. "It was one of those times when you get to have a positive connection with the community."
In addition, the department was able to collect more than 100 new toys. Last week, the officers delivered the toys to the Toys for Tots organizers in Providence.
"It's growing every year," Det. Ferreira said.
Chief LaCross said the local toy collection effort is entirely voluntary. The chief also credited the community for stepping up and donating toys.
On Wednesday, Dec. 13, Chief LaCross penned a letter of appreciation to Det. Ferreira and Officer Melo. In the letter, he wrote "This program was a great community engagement effort on behalf of both officers which enhances a greater trust and connection with our community we are sworn to serve."