Sheriff’s office tees up for golf fundraiser

The Chester County Sheriff’s Office will hold its 25th annual Sheriff’s Community Golf Classic on May 14.

WEST CHESTER » The Chester County Sheriff’s Office will hold its 25th annual Sheriff’s Community Golf Classic on Monday, May 14 and the public is invited to get into the swing of this popular event.

The tournament will take place at the Downingtown Country Club golf course from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Proceeds from the event have helped to fund a variety of community programs. Over the years those programs have included D.A.R.E., Kids Safe, Deputy Phil, Bullying Hurts, Eddie Eagle Gun Safety, Safe Kids Car Seat program and the TRIAD program, which was created to protect senior citizens.

In 2006, proceeds began to help subsidizing the Chester County Sheriff’s Office K-9 Unit, created to serve the citizens and assist law enforcement in Chester County. The K-9 teams have been utilized to provide their specialized coverage in all of the county-owned facilities.

Ten K-9 teams offer expertise in drug detection, bomb-sniffing, arson detection, cadaver location and comfort services. All of the teams, which can respond to requests for aid within and outside the county’s borders, are additionally trained in tracking. The teams have helped to locate missing children and infirm adults as well as to apprehend fugitives.

Chester County Sheriff Carolyn “Bunny” Welsh said she appreciates the community support the annual golf tournament has received, especially now that the K-9 Unit, which operates primarily with donated funds, has proven to be such a valuable community resource.

“Our K-9 services have been recognized for their professionalism and efficiency, which has resulted in their services being requested by numerous townships, county, state and federal agencies,” said Welsh. “We are pleased to work with law enforcement in Chester County and beyond.”

This year’s tournament currently has several openings. The cost, which includes lunch and a dinner buffet, is $650 for a foursome or $175 for an individual. Those who don’t golf can support the event by just attending the dinner, a steak and lobster buffet available for $75 per person.

For more information or to register, contact Kathy Brady Shea at kbradyshea@chesco.org or 610-344-6860.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Golfers practice their putting at the 24th annual Sheriff’s Community Golf Classic in Downingtown.