The Elk River Police Department is asking for the public’s help to fund a deeply meaningful, life-size bronze sculpture to be placed at the entrance of ERPD. Standing more than six-feet tall, “The Protector” features a police officer holding the hand of a small child, symbolic to both law enforcement agencies, and the community members they serve in very different ways.
“Protectors, that is exactly what we are as officers of the law. This statue will showcase the commitment of protecting the innocent, while also recognizing the inherent risks the men and women who serve Elk River take each day by putting on this uniform” said ERPD Chief Ron Nierenhausen.
$50,000 is needed to fund the statue, which will depict an actual Elk River officer, meticulously customized to include unique details of ERPD’s uniform, patches, badges, equipment, belt, etc. Since fundraising began earlier this year, roughly $18,000 in generous donations from the public have been made.
A secure online donation fund has been set up through the city’s website here, with 100% of the proceeds going toward financing this monument. Any monetary amount is greatly appreciated - we hope residents will take pride in knowing contributions of any amount helped bring this meaningful piece of art to ERPD. Larger donors (corporate or private citizens) of $5,000 or more will be recognized for their generous contributions on a nearby plaque.
Chief Nierenhausen hopes to have funds raised by spring 2022 in order to begin the six-month sculpting/customization process.