Contributed
BENNETTSVILLE — This year Bennettsville Police Chief Sammy Crosland and his fellow merry officers helped Santa and his busy elves this holiday season, holding their first annual Shop with A Cop at Walmart in Bennettsville this December. Families from the Bennettsville area in need of presents for their little ones were offered the opportunity to bring their children to the local retail giant and raid the toy aisle in search of their perfect Christmas gift.
Knowing parents, and even Santa too, has felt the economic pinch this year, the Chief said he and his department felt it was important to help the big guy out.
He said, “Today, the Bennettsville Police Department had the privilege of partnering with the Bennettsville Walmart for our first Shop with a Cop event and it was an experience that truly reflected the heart of our community, seeing our officers walk side by side with local children- laughing, talking and simply being present was a powerful sight for many of those children.”
Crosland knows a positive first interaction with law enforcement is key in shaping a child’s perception of what interacting with an officer should be like for them now and in the future.
He said, “Moments like these remind us that law enforcement is about more than enforcement, it is about surface compassion and building trust. When children see officers as mentors and allies, we take an important step towards strengthening the future of our community.”
Crosland added, “This event was not just a shopping trip, it was an opportunity for the children in our community to feel seen, supported and valued. For our officers, it was a chance to engage with the community in a way that goes beyond the badge and uniform.”
Heaping praise on Walmart’s Manager Tracy, Crosland said, “This event would not have been possible without the partnership and generosity of the Bennettsville Walmart. Their willingness to open their doors and work alongside the Bennettsville Police Department demonstrates what can happen when businesses and public safety come together with a shared purpose. I am proud of our officers, grateful to Walmart, and thankful to everyone who helped to make our first Shop with a Cop event a success. This was more than an event; it was a meaningful experience that reflects the heart of Bennettsville.”
Administrative Lieutenant Bob Hale is a fixture in Marlboro County law enforcement due to his long and storied 19-year career serving and protecting the community. He said he felt like the department’s first Shop with A Cop was extremely successful.
He said, “After nearly two decades in law enforcement, I can honestly say today is one of those moments that really sticks with you. I want to acknowledge Chief Crosland for supporting efforts like this and giving us the opportunity to be involved. When leadership understands and prioritizes events and causes that benefit entire families, and that support is matched with the heart and dedication of Walmart employees, it creates something special. I truly hope this partnership continues to flourish and that together we can impact our community in even bigger ways moving forward.”
A Bennettsville native, Hale went on to say he felt like the day was special for him because of the joy he saw on the faces of children and the looks of gratitude and profound relief he saw on the faces of their parents.
“Seeing the kids light up with excitement and knowing we were able to help give parents a little breathing room during the holidays means a lot. You never know what families may be dealing with, so being able to help ease that burden, even for a moment, is something I will always be grateful for. Moments like that remind you why this work matters,” said Hale, adding, “It was a blessing being part of this, and I can already say we’re looking forward to doing it again next year.”
Lieutenant E. German said the Shop with A Cop experience reminded her of the countless faces she has seen over her years serving in law enforcement, noting officers often interact with their community when they are at their lowest point- be it financially, emotionally, or medically.
“Over the course of my career I have seen firsthand how difficult the holidays can be for some families. There were times when children had little to look forward to at Christmas and as officers, we would come together to support those families in any way we could,” said German, adding she takes pride in being a part of an organization that not only keeps its citizens protected, but when it sees a need in its community, it goes the extra mile to fill it.
German continued, “Thanksgiving and Christmas were always moments when the department tried to give back the most, and being part of those efforts is deeply rewarding. Knowing that a small act of kindness could bring joy, relief and smiles to a family made every effort worthwhile.”
Participating in the shopping event helped German get in the Christmas spirit because she said it reminded her of when she experienced the magic of Christmas morning as a young kid herself.
“A sense of joy returned to me as I watched children participate in shop with a cop at Walmart. Seeing kids’ faces light up as they eagerly selected toys and placed them into their shopping carts was truly moving. The excitement, laughter, and genuine happiness in their faces served as a powerful reminder for why events like this matter. Moments like today go far beyond gifts. They create memories, build trust, and show our children that their community cares deeply about them. It was an honor to witness and be a part of an experience that brought so much happiness to our children and families this holiday season,” said German.