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Group holds fundraiser, toy drive for fallen Show Low officer

Posted at 2:56 PM, Dec 10, 2016
and last updated 2016-12-10 21:24:15-05

He is one of the many officers who gave the ultimate sacrifice to keep those in our state safe. Now, a family will be forced to spend the holidays and a lifetime without their loved one. 

The Arizona Law Enforcement Emerald Society Foundation held a fundraiser and holiday toy drive in honor of Officer Darrin Reed. He is one of the many officers who gave the ultimate sacrifice to keep those in our state safe. Now, a family will be forced to spend the holidays and a lifetime without their loved one. 

On Saturday, the group collected toys for the free "Blue Christmas" event at Rosie McCaffrey's Irish Pub near 7th Street and Camelback Road. The donations will be distributed to the the needy kids who otherwise wouldn't receive a present from Santa. 

Additionally, the event featured Santa's Workshop for kids to make craft ornaments, as well as cookie decorating, bounce houses, face painting and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus. 

Money raised during the fundraiser will go to Reed's family.

"We've been able to, fortunate enough, to increase it from $1,500  to 5,000 dollars in each individual case," explained Tony Diefert with the foundation. "So, it's an over 300 percent increase. That money is a little token of appreciation." 

The Show Low officer was shot and killed last month in the line of duty. The gunman was also killed hours later during a confrontation with officers at a Show Low motel. 

You can also donate online through the foundation's page.