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Cameras will assist officers at crime scenes [The McDowell News, Marion, N.C.](McDowell News (Marion, NC) Via Acquire Media NewsEdge) Sept. 04--Sgt. Rick Gutierrez saw a need within the Marion Police Department and he did something about it. Gutierrez decided to apply for a grant through Walmart's Local Giving Program, asking for funds to purchase digital cameras to aid in investigations. The Local Giving Program helps support the needs of communities by providing grants ranging from $250 to $2,500 for local organizations such as government entities, schools, churches, or any organization holding a current tax-exempt status under Section 501. "We were so lucky and blessed that we got this because this is saving the police department quite a chunk of money," Gutierrez told The McDowell News. "And also it gives us the ability to have the cameras when we need them. It's a tremendous asset for us, so it was fantastic that we qualified for it." The Walmart in Marion approved a grant for $1,500. Gutierrez was able to purchase 14 Nikon Coolpix L28 cameras with cases and SD cards. "With this grant, we were able to buy a camera for each officer," Gutierrez said, "so that way when they respond to a crime scene or to a call, and they need to take pictures for evidence, they have one available." Each police officer in Marion will be equipped with digital cameras to take pictures of crime scenes, arrested individuals, and any specific markings on suspects such as tattoos, scars, etc. Officers will attach these photos to arrest reports or warrants in hopes that repeat offenders will be easily tracked and identified. Walmart Assistant Manager Elizabeth Steele worked with her supervisors in helping the police department receive the grant. "I know we want them (Marion Police Department) to always come and shop with us and we always want to support them," said Steele, "so if we can give them anything that they need, we're there for them. Walmart's always looking to find ways to give back to the community." Police Chief Allen Lawrence said Gutierrez went above and beyond his call of duty to improve the Marion Police Department. "Well we are very proud to have him first and foremost, and I want to thank Walmart for helping us with this grant to give us the ability to get these cameras," said Lawrence. "This is just another way we can better serve the community by providing the best quality of services we can by allowing these officers to have additional resources to use out here on the street." For more information on how to apply for grants through Wal-Mart visit www.foundation.walmart.com. ___ (c)2013 The McDowell News (Marion, N.C.) Visit The McDowell News (Marion, N.C.) at www.mcdowellnews.com Distributed by MCT Information Services |