03/02/2026
Good news to start the week.
We’re excited to share that a photo of our officers and local high school students was selected as one of 12 winners nationwide in the Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) Highlighting Heroes photo contest.
The image captures officers and students working side by side last summer painting a mural focused on mental health and hope. This project began with young people who asked for support and partnership to help start the conversation about mental health. Our officers were proud to show up and stand beside them.
We are grateful for officers who care deeply about this community and aren't afraid to get a little paint on their uniforms. We are just as proud of the incredible students who used their voices, shared their vision, and worked hard to bring it to life.
Thank you to our community partners, Horizon Behavioral Health, Su***de Prevention Awareness Coalition, Get Hype Lynchburg and Hughes Supply for helping make this possible. This recognition belongs to all of you.
Here’s to starting the week with something positive and remembering that there is always hope.
You can see this photo and the others winners here: https://cops.usdoj.gov/2026-community-policing-action-photo-contest-winners