SCSO prepares for annual torch run

Law enforcement officers in Sanders County have a unique bond with local Special Olympics athletes. The athletes.

“The athletes really look up to law enforcement,” Sanders County Sheriff’s Office reserve deputy Brandi Jones said. Jones is taking over the Special Olympics Torch Run this year. The torch run is scheduled for Saturday, May 11. Runners, walkers, bicyclists and people on horseback will complete a relay from the state line to Plains (mile marker 75 on Highway 200) for the torch run, which has been around for 41 years in Montana.

Jones is accepting donations and pledges to help support Special Olympics in Montana. She took over coordinating the Sanders County torch run this year from Deputy Roy Scott. Deputy April Phillips also organized the event for several years.

Jones and her husband Dan moved to Heron four years ago. They are both EMTs, as well as serving as chaplains and reserve deputies for the sheriff’s office.

“In a small community you have to step up and get involved and help get things done,” she said. She encourages people to get involved in the torch run, either by volunteering or donating. T-shirts can be purchased for $15, and participants who gather more than $100 in pledges or shirt sales earn a long-sleeve guardian shirt. “They’ll get a willingness to put others first,” Jones says of those who get involved.

For more information or to get involved with the torch run, go to the Montana Special Olympics Law Enforcement Torch Run, or contact Jones at 847-3333.