On Wednesday, June 8th law enforcement from the area will be participating in the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics. Officers from the Illinois State Police, Macoupin County Sheriff's Office, Gillespie, Carlinville, Girard and Virden Police Departments will be participating in the run. Running alongside the officers will be personnel from the Illinois Army National Guard as well as civilians who support Special Olympics.

The Law Enforcement Torch Run is the largest year round fundraiser benefitting Special Olympics. The Law Enforcement Torch Run has dontated over 39 million dollars to Special Olympics.

This year officers will start the leg at Gillespie Police Department at approximately 7am and follow IL Rt. 4 north to the district line on the north edge of Virden. Members of the Illinois State Police Academy will run the torch from Virden to the steps of the Illinois State Capitol.

Motorists should be aware of the runners if traveling in the area. There will be serveral vehicles following the runners with emergency lights on.