Mansfield Law Enforcement Join Special Olympics Torch Run

Troopers from Connecticut State Police Troop C and officers from the Department took part in the 26th Annual Law Enforcement Torch Run Thursday, benefitting the Special Olympics.

Upon completion, the Torch Run will cover over 530 miles through more than 100 cities and towns, according to the Special Olympics Web site.

Local public safety officials began their portion of the run Thursday at Mansfield Town Hall on South Eagleville Road, carrying the Flame of Hope to Thompson’s General Store on Middle Turnpike, where the torch was handed off to members in Coventry.

This year, Trooper Matthew Benzie, representing the Mansfield Resident State Trooper’s Office, ran the approximately 5-mile route across town, carrying the torch for a portion of the run.

Thursday’s Torch Run leads up to the 2012 State Summer Games, which are slated to begin Friday, June 8 at Southern Connecticut State University.

Officials hope to raise $550,000 for this year's event, according to the organization’s Web site.