MERIDETH CALL / Scroll
(From left to right) Dep. Dusty Davidson, Capt. Travis Williams, Sgt. Dave Stoddard, Chief Dep. Bret Shei and Sheriff Roy Klinger are growing facial hair for needy families.

Police grow facial hair to raise money for needy families

IMerideth Call CAL05009@BYUI.EDU Scroll Staff

In a recent press conference, Rexburg’s local cops announced that they are once again growing out their facial hair for a good cause.

This annual event occurs every September, when local police officers join with deputies of the surrounding area in growing beards, mustaches, goatees, etc ... for a fund-raiser known as “Shop with a Cop.”

In December, when the fund-raiser ends, the cops take the money they earn to Kmart and buy toys and clothes, along with other items, for families in need of a Christmas.

“Last year we were able to raise close to $1,000 from staff alone for the cause,” Roy Klinger, Rexburg’s sheriff said.

“It is a fun event and everybody grows out their own style of facial hair,” said Klinger.

Each officer wanting to participate donates $25 to be able to grow out their facial hair. Normally, police officers are not allowed to grow out any sort of facial hair, due to rules similar to the BYU-Idaho Honor Code. Their beards, etc … need to be clean cut and modest ­­— nothing extreme.

Near the fund-raiser’s end, the cops have a contest to see who has achieved the scruffiest, longest, best or most Santa-Clause-like beards.

Funds for “Shop with a Cop” can also be donated through the local Sheriff’s office.