Santa Cops is a nationwide program started several years ago by Officer John Padilla, a police officer from Maricopa County. The purpose is to provide Christmas gifts for children who may not have one otherwise.

LPPA had it first annual event called “Santa Cops” in December of 2007. The first year was a huge success and we look forward to continuing the program for many years to come.  This year the children will be selected by Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Lubbock as well as the Child Advocacy Center of Lubbock. The only requirement is that the children selected will most likely not have a Christmas.

Here is the tentative itinerary for Santa Cops 2009.

1. 40 officers and LPD employees will pick up 40 children on Saturday, December 5th at about 8:00. (Children between  the ages of 7-14).
2. All officers will meet at the fair grounds.
3. All officers will drive in a procession to Barnes & Noble where the children will selected several books.
4. From there we will go to Cardinal sporting goods where the children will select a pair of tennis shoes of their choice.
5. We then proceed to Wal-Mart on South Loop where the officers will shop with their sponsor child, with a set spending amount of about $150.00.
6. The officers and children then go to Golden Corral where we all eat.
7. We will then go to South Plains Bowl for a few games of bowling. Once the children walk in, they will be surprised with a new bike.
8. We will conclude the day with a private viewing of a movie and refreshments at Tinseltown Theater

There will be an out-of-pocket expense for the officers, of up to $250, depending on the donations.

We are currently seeking donations for Santa Cops 2009. Our goal is to take 40 children on the Christmas shopping spree. This is dependant on the donations received. (Donations made to Santa Cops are NOT tax deductible under IRS charitable contributions.)

If you are interested in being a host officer, or to make donations, contact Tim Seeley @781-3283.

Sponsored by the Lubbock Professional Police Association