February 24, 2021

Salem, Ore. — Five Salem Police officers braved the cold waters of a privately-owned pond and took a plunge for Special Olympics. Each January and February, the annual Oregon Polar Plunge for Special Olympics is celebrated by law enforcement agencies across the nation. Participants are challenged to raise awareness of local Special Olympics and raise funds for their programs by plunging into wintery frigid waters.

Senior Officer Brian Frazzini led the effort and this year was joined by Officers Dowd, Engler, Mason and Tillman. Because of the current guidelines on physical distancing, the officers jumped into the chilly pond at Adam’s Acres one at a time. To emphasize safety aspect, the bold-to-get-cold officers were joined in the frigid waters by a Salem Fire Department rescue swimmer.

Frazzini has been handling the police department’s efforts to support Special Olympians in Marion and Polk counties since 2003. In addition to the Polar Plunge, he has organized other fundraising efforts, such as the Law Enforcement Torch Run, Tip a Cop and Cops on Shops. Salem officers also have the pleasure of handing out medals at the Special Olympian Games. Officers volunteer to participate in these activities on their own personal time.

Said Frazzini about his ardent support of all things Special Olympics, “The intellectual and physically-disabled community is underrepresented, and they need champions. Law enforcement has taken up the challenge to be that for them and give them support to achieve greatness.”

The Salem Police Team raised $3,200 which will go toward Special Olympian activities in Marion and Polk counties.

Watch the officers get #freezinforareason on the Salem Police YouTube channel, @SalemPDTV.

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