Busy week of events for SPD

Apart from its normal crime-fighting duties, the Starkville Police Department has a full slate of events and community initiatives going on this week.

“We are currently working on numerous projects that support our community either directly or indirectly,” said SPD Public Information Officer Sgt. Brandon Lovelady. “We are still looking for stuffed animals for Animal Control’s educational programs and extending the deadline for owners to claim bicycles we have accumulated over the years.”

For those looking to reclaim recovered bikes, you must provide proof in order to claim it. Appointments can be made by calling the police department, which is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The SPD says examples of proof include purchase receipts, serial numbers and clear pictures. Investigators will also need a police report of when the bike went missing.

The department’s Animal Control division is also hosting a toy drive to help teach local first graders about pet care.

Animal Control is hoping to receive as many stuffed animals as possible to help with this project and will be accepting stuffed animals, craft supplies, food bowls, and other items to deliver to first grade classrooms in hopes that this will get children excited and involved about making sure their pets have happy and healthy lives. Donations can be brought to the Starkville Police Department headquarters on East Lampkin Street and dropped in the toy box in the lobby.

Lovelady then said Thursday morning will see the department host its monthly Coffee with a Cop event held in tandem with a recruiting drive beginning at 9 a.m. at the SPD headquarters.

Registration for the recruiting fair begins at 8:30 a.m.