Carson City officers can afford memorial trip now

A fundraiser at Harley-Davidson was such a success Saturday that at least two Carson City Sheriff's officers will be attending the Peace Officer's Memorial in Washington, D.C. next month.

With 167 entrants vying for the handmade trophies in more than 16 categories, Sgt. Mike Cullen said more than $4,000 was raised. That, added to the $1,000 raised as a beer and wine event in February, will cover the cost of sending Cullen and Deputy Wayne Wheeler, and their motorcycles to Washington.

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This is an excellent turnout. Not what we expected, but what we hoped for," said Deputy Sal Acosta.

This year's national memorial in D.C. has special meaning to the Carson City Sheriff's Department's Motor Officers, said Acosta.

For the last seven years, the Sacramento Sheriff's Department has been participating in the Sheriff's Motor Competition in Carson City. Among those Sacramento officers was Deputy Larry Canfield, who was killed while on motorcycle patrol Nov. 12. His name will be added the national memorial in May.

"He was here every year for us, we're going to ride him all the way home," said Sheriff Ken Furlong.

Chris and Greg Santucci of Gardnerville picked up a second-place trophy for Best Muscle Car.

The couple attends numerous car shows with their red and white 1961 Chevy Impala and said the Sheriff's Department's foray into the car show arena was good.

"It was great," said Greg. "We loved it."

Furlong said the fundraiser will likely become an annual event, with the proceeds going to various groups supported by the Motor Officers unit such as the Boys & Girls Club of Western Nevada.

"This turned out bigger and better than anticipated," he said.