The Federal Way Police Department ran for Special Olympics through downtown Federal Way on May 31.

According to a press release from Federal Way Police Chief Andy Hwang, “Once again, our officers and staff will be carrying the torch down Pacific Hwy S., helping deliver the ‘Flame of Hope’ to the Special Olympics Washington Spring Games, held at Pacific Lutheran University.”

Hwang said in 2018 the department was able to raise $30,000 towards the Special Olympics, making FWPD the second top fundraising department in the city.

The city did this through events like the Polar Plunge, Tip-A-Cop and the department’s signature event, Run With The Cops 5k.

According to Hwang, Officer Donovan Heavener and several other department members help to organize and work these events, and he expressed his gratitude for all involved.

Heavener is also part of the Executive Council for Law Enforcement Torch Run, Hwang said, and helps organize all of the different legs of the state’s Torch Run.

On May 31 around 2 p.m., the Special Olympics torch called the “Flame of Hope” was passed off to FWPD who carried it from 272nd Street on Pacific Highway S to 373rd Street through downtown Federal Way.

The “Flame of Hope” arrived at Pacific Lutheran University at about 7 p.m. to mark the opening ceremony for the games.

A group of Federal Way Police Department officers and administrators after running their portion of the Special Olympics Torch Run through downtown Federal Way. Photo courtesy of FWPD

FWPD having fun carrying the torch for the annual Special Olympics Torch Run May 31. Photo courtesy of FWPD

FWPD having fun carrying the torch for the annual Special Olympics Torch Run May 31. Photo courtesy of FWPD