The third annual “Paint the Town Blue” is slated for Feb. 12-18, 2017. The purpose is to honor and lift up all law enforcers. That can be done in a couple of ways.

 

Residents are asked to place blue lightbulbs in the fixtures on their front porches during the designated days of the observance.

 

Blue lightbulbs can be purchased for $5 at Bridgeport Police Department with all proceeds benefiting the National Alliance for Law Enforcement Officers. Previously known as Wives Behind the Badge, the organization dedicated to providing resources and emotional support to law enforcement families of fallen officers.

 

On Feb. 16, residents, employees and students can help Paint the Town Blue by sporting blue jeans. By making the dress-down day a fundraiser, moneys can also be raised for law enforcement support.

 

“Businesses or individuals interested in participating should collect $5 from employees,” said City Clerk Andrea Kerr. “The money can be dropped off to the police department or we will pick it up.”

 

Paint the Town Blue is a national observance, but here in Bridgeport, it’s a way to honor the memory of Deputy U.S. Marshal Derek Hotsinpiller, who was killed in the line of duty in February of 2011. He was shot while serving a warrant in Elkins.

 

His passion to serve the public through law enforcement was in a big way inspired by his role models – his dad and brother. Lt. James W. Hotsinpiller had served Bridgeport Police Department for 27 years and was second in command. He had been a member of the Child Abuse Task Force and commander of the Special Response Team. Within a year after his dad’s death, Dustin Hotsinpiller joined the Bridgeport police force, soon to be promoted to detective. He now serves as Deputy U.S. Marshal.

 

After his 2005 graduation from BHS, Derek Hotsinpiller attended Fairmont State University to study criminal justice, just as his dad and brother had done.

 

In a tribute piece published on Connect-Bridgeport on Feb. 16, 2016 – marking the fifth anniversary of Hotsinpiller’s death – many friends and colleagues shared stories and memories about the hometown hero. Read that story HERE.

 

“Paint the Town Blue” is sponsored by the City of Bridgeport and Bridgeport Police Department. Questions can be directed to Bridgeport Police Department, 304-842-8233.