'Santa Cops' Event Saturday at Potomac Mills Walmart

WOODBRIDGE, VA — If you're planning on hitting the Potomac Mills Walmart early Saturday morning, don't be surprised when you see an overwhelming number of police officers — all with shopping carts full of toys.

The Fraternal Order of Police, Battlefield Lodge 43, will be having its annual "Santa Cops" event, beginning at 7:15 a.m.

About 50 at-risk kids ages 5-10 will be accompanied by police officers on a shopping spree, after which they will be escorted in police cruisers to Ornery's for breakfast.

Among the agencies to be represented: Prince William County Police, Prince William Adult Detention Center, Prince William County Sheriff's Office, Virginia State Police and George Mason University Police.

The goal, according to a release, is to develop a positive image of police officers.

"The children selected come from all walks of life and differing circumstances, but all are faced with financial limitations in their homes. Our mission is to promote a positive law enforcement image with these children."

All funds for the program are donated by local business and residents of Prince William County. All donations are tax-deductible through the Battlefield Lodge 43 Charitable Foundation, Inc., a 501(c)(3) organization.

Donations can be mailed to: Battlefield Charitable Foundation, Inc., P.O. Box 195, Woodbridge, VA 22194 or made in person at the event.

Photo: FOP Battlefield Lodge 43