Law enforcement officers show team spirit

By Jenna Wilson

If you’ve seen officers with the Buchanan County Sheriff’s Office patrolling the streets this week, you may have noticed them sporting Chiefs gear in addition to their everyday uniforms.

“We just want to show support for our hometown team, the Kansas City Chiefs,” said Matt Gilpin with the sheriff’s office. “Officers that work the street, we’re allowed to wear a red undershirt, a Chiefs hat or stocking cap depending on the weather and the office personnel can wear jerseys or anything that says Kansas City Chiefs on the shirt.”

While many in the area are rooting for the Chiefs, Gilpin said displaying their team spirit in the office has created a fun environment for them as there’s still some team rivalry going on from staff members who hope the 49ers come out on top. Most importantly, he said they see this as a way to connect with fans in the community.

“We’re people just like everyone else,” Gilpin said. “To be able to show support for our team that we like in any way is a good thing. It brings everyone together and it’s one more way to connect with the community while we’re out.”

As excitement grows for the Super Bowl, officers are reminding the public to make safe decisions while celebrating with family and friends.

“We want to see everyone get together and enjoy the big game this weekend,” Gilpin said. “Certainly, while doing that we also encourage people to have a plan before the partying starts and to be safe.”