Connell police observe Breast Cancer Awareness Month

CONNELL — Don't be surprised this month if you see pink on local police uniforms.

That's because the Police Department is observing Breast Cancer Awareness Month by participating the Pink Patch Project.

Local officers are sporting the new law enforcement patches that incorporate pink into the department's insignia.

Residents, too, can participate by purchasing a patch for $11; information is available by calling the non-emergency police line at 509-234-4141. Proceeds from the patch sales benefit the American Cancer Sociey.

The Pink Patch Project began in 2013 with the Seal Beach, Calif., Police Department when law enforcement officials decided to observe the month by adding pink to their patch. Two years later, the Irwindale, Calif., Police Department followed suit, and sold their patches to the community, raising more than $20,000.

Hundreds of agencies now participate in the project, including 18 in Washington state. In Franklin County, the Pasco police and fire departments are also participating. (See related story.)