Law enforcement agencies across Vermont began the Law Enforcement Torch Run on Tuesday, a statewide effort that leads into the 2025 Vermont Special Olympics Summer Games, set to take place Friday and Saturday at Saint Michael's College.

One of four routes began at the Bennington Battle Monument, where athletes, officers, and supporters carried the "Flame of Hope" six miles to Shaftsbury Elementary School. The Bennington Police Department was joined by the Southwest Vermont Regional Technical School’s law enforcement class, with the Bennington Rescue Squad following to provide support.

Officer Nick Jones, who coordinated the Bennington leg, said the event is a meaningful opportunity for the department to show support.

“It’s just another way for us to show that, hey, we’re people too,” Jo

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