New Vehicle Stickers in Orland Park Show Support for Police

ORLAND PARK, IL - A south suburban community is honoring its police force with its next wave of vehicle stickers.

The village of Orland Park unveiled its 2017-19 vehicle sticker at a meeting this week. It shows a black and white American flag with a thin blue line included, the image most commonly associated with the recent “Blue Lives Matter” movement that supports law enforcement. The top of the sticker reads “Orland Park Supports Police.”

“We want our local police and law enforcement across the country to know that Orland Park supports them,” said Mayor Dan McLaughlin. “Police officers on all levels have had a hard time these past few years and it’s time for people to thank them for their service.”

Read More: Village of Orland Park Vehicle Stickers Salute Law Enforcement

The decision to make the design a show of support for law enforcement came after a number of residents in the village called requesting something be done to support the police.

Reaction from the community after the village revealed the new stickers on Facebook was a bit mixed. Most were supportive. Others, while stating they personally support law enforcement, showed concern for their vehicles while parked in other municipalities.

"I am afraid of having my windshield shattered when I park in Chicago," one woman stated. "Is the village ready to pay for the window replacement and a tow back to Orland Park if its late at night. I don't think the mayor thought of how many people have to go to Chicago for work or family."

Others stated that the village should not put itself in a position to be criticized by residents of other communities which are less supportive of police.

Police Chief Tim McCarthy, who is also serving in the role of interim village manager, says the Orland Park community has always been “very supportive” of the police.

“Our personnel have received cards and letters thanking them for protecting the community and it’s meant a lot to all of us,” he said, adding that some of the village’s retired police officers were “wild” when shown the design.

Residents with vehicles registered to an Orland Park address will be able to apply for the stickers at the end of May and must have the stickers affixed to the lower right of their windshield by the end of June.

Photo via Village of Orland Park