Foundation in memory of fallen IMPD officer has awarded $800K
The 16th annual Jake Laird Memorial Golf Tournament was held on Aug. 9 at Pebble Brook Golf Club to honor the memory of IMPD officer Jake Laird. Jake was shot and killed in the line of duty on Aug. 18, 2004.
Soon after his death, his parents, Mike and Debbie Laird, established a foundation that provides financial assistance to public safety officers for equipment, support for various police and fire programs, and financial assistance for police officers and firefighters injured in the line of duty. To date, the foundation has been able to award approximately $800,000 to deserving public safety officers, precincts and fire stations.
The annual golf outing, which ends with a catered dinner and auction, is the major fundraising event for the foundation. This year’s outing was attended by nearly 400 golfers and volunteers. Opening ceremonies included the Indianapolis Metro Police Deparment Honor Guard presenting Colors, bag pipers, Lt. Bryan Wolfe singing the National Anthem and remarks from IMPD Chief Bryan Roach, Noblesville mayoral candidate Chris Jensen, and Mike and Debbie Laird. State Representative Donna Schaibley made remarks concerning The Jake Laird Red Flag Law, which she authored, and was signed by the Governor earlier this year.
Anyone interested in donating can send a donation to any BMO Bank, noting the donation is for the Jake Laird Memorial Fund.