Spreading Holiday Cheer, Building Community Bonds, and Saving Lives
By: Johanna Elattar, pictured is Chief Ted Murray on the “Shop with a Cop” beat
In Hornell, the local police department goes beyond the conventional responsibilities of law enforcement, transcending into the realms of community engagement and spreading holiday cheer to those in need. Recently, I had the distinct honor of engaging in a conversation with Chief Ted Murray and Officer Mike Hoyt from the Hornell Police Department, delving into their multifaceted holiday initiatives and ongoing community outreach programs.
A shining beacon among their endeavors is the celebrated “Shop with a Cop” program, a tradition that has evolved since its inception in 2007, starting with 20 children and now embracing 70 in the year 2023. Orchestrated by Officer Mike Hoyt and his wife, Clare Hoyt, an employee at Walmart, the program sees officers visiting schools to identify children facing hardships during the festive season. These chosen families are then invited to a local Walmart, where each child is paired with a police officer to embark on a special shopping spree for Christmas presents, fostering enduring memories and cultivating positive relationships within the community.
Chief Ted Murray articulated, “The program’s success is not merely measured by the number of children served but in the connections formed between our officers and the families. It’s about demonstrating to our community that we are not just enforcers of the law but friends and supporters during the holiday season.”
Even as the department spreads holiday cheer, safety remains paramount. Extra patrols are strategically deployed to ensure public safety, particularly in preventing incidents of drunk driving. Collaborative efforts with other law enforcement agencies amplify these endeavors. Furthermore, an innovative project involving the refurbishment and distribution of abandoned bicycles provides sustainable transportation options for those in need, with around 40-50 bikes given new life this year.
The commitment to community welfare extends to a holiday fund established by the police union, providing financial assistance to individuals and families facing economic challenges. Each Hornell police officer contributes $50, a sum matched by the Police Club. Through partnerships with school resource officers and engagement in school events, officers identify and support families in need.
Despite the festive atmosphere, a disconcerting trend in mental health issues has surfaced in Hornell. Chief Ted Murray revealed a staggering 9,000 mental health complaints received by the department. The shortage of mental health facilities and resources has become a pressing concern, leading to an uptick in reported overdoses.
Overdoses, a harsh reality, have witnessed a rise, with approximately 40-50 cases reported this year. The administration of Narcan, a life-saving intervention, has played a crucial role in saving about 20 lives. Nevertheless, the underreporting of overdoses remains an issue, as some individuals, once revived, refrain from seeking medical attention, presenting an unseen struggle that law enforcement grapples with.
Acknowledging the gravity of addressing mental health issues, the Hornell Police Department prioritizes continuous training for officers on handling individuals with mental health challenges. Collaboration with the local fire department further enhances their capacity to respond effectively to such situations.
In addition to their routine duties, Hornell police officers often find themselves confronted with unexpected pleas for assistance. Individuals seeking help at the police department to create a festive atmosphere for their families have become a recurring scenario. Responding with compassion, officers unite, collecting donations and gifts to ensure that no family is left without during the holiday season.
To address homelessness during the frigid winter months, the city has implemented a “Code Blue” initiative. Homeless individuals in need receive vouchers for motel stays, and collaborative efforts with other agencies aim to provide comprehensive support and services.
Chief Ted Murray emphasized, “Our duty extends beyond law enforcement; it’s about being there for our community in every aspect, especially during the holidays. We are committed to fostering a safe and caring environment for all residents.”
For those grappling with addiction, a walk-in assessment service is available every Thursday between 8:30 AM and 3:30 PM. Individuals seeking help are urged to call (607) 937-7800, recognizing that early intervention can be the crucial difference between life and death.
As the Hornell Police Department seamlessly juggles its role in ensuring public safety and contributing to community welfare, their unwavering dedication serves as a powerful testament to the true spirit of the season—unity, compassion, and an unyielding commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of those they serve.
