Law Enforcement Torch Run
Carrying the Flame of Hope Across Rhode Island
An international movement powered by law enforcement. A Rhode Island tradition that unites police, fire, corrections, and justice in support of Special Olympics athletes statewide.
Police
Fire
Corrections
Justice
Year-Round Fundraising
Flame of Hope
What Is the Torch Run?
The Law Enforcement Torch Run is part of an international campaign for Special Olympics, coordinated and managed by law enforcement officers and officials throughout the world. Its mission: raise dollars and awareness for the Special Olympics movement worldwide.
Special Olympics Rhode Island is the only state to include police, fire, corrections, and justice as part of the Torch Run — providing significant financial support and public awareness for SORI athletes.
At its core, the Torch Run is an annual running event where representatives from law enforcement and fire carry the “Flame of Hope” throughout Rhode Island, arriving at the SORI State Summer Games Opening Ceremonies. Year-round fundraising events — including the Plunge, Motorcycle Run, and Golf Tournament — keep the momentum going all year long.
LETR members also provide volunteer support at Special Olympics Rhode Island Area and State Competitions, presenting medals to our athletes.
Volunteer for the Torch Run
Torch Run Committee
The dedicated law enforcement and fire professionals who make it all happen.
Co-Director
Corporal Tammy David
East Providence Police Department (retired)
Co-Director
Officer Frank Matarese
Warwick Police Department
Assistant Co-Director
Firefighter Rick LaBreche
Woonsocket Fire Department (retired)
Honorary Chair
Col. Oscar Perez
Providence Police Department
Special Assistant Jim Baum
Office of the Attorney General
Officer Kevin Roca
Barrington Police Department
Michael Horan
143rd Fire and Emergency Services
Firefighter Gary Benitez
Providence Fire Department
Officer Zachary Coyne
Warwick Police Department
Lieutenant Carrie Hormanski
Pawtucket Police Department
Chief Elwood Johnson
Richmond Police Department
Lieutenant Sarah McNulty
Central Falls Police Department
Lieutenant David Ricciarelli
Cumberland Police Department (retired)
Corporal Kyle Shibley
Rhode Island State Police
Firefighter Chris McCluskie
Pawtucket Fire Department
Athlete Representative
Tommy Flynn
Special Olympics Rhode Island
Get Involved
Everything you need to participate, fundraise, and stay connected with the Torch Run.
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Volunteer Opportunities
Present medals at Summer Games and support athletes at competitions across Rhode Island.
Sign Up
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Subscribe to the Newsletter
Stay up to date on Torch Run news, events, and fundraising milestones all year long.
Subscribe
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Legs of the Annual Torch Run
See the route map and find the leg happening in your department’s jurisdiction.
View Legs
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2026 Torch Run Shirt
Order your official 2026 LETR shirt and show your support for Special Olympics Rhode Island.
Order Now
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Motorcycle Events
Join the annual LETR Motorcycle Run — one of Rhode Island’s most spirited fundraising traditions.
Learn More
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Torch Run Plunge
Law enforcement teams brave the cold to raise funds for SORI athletes.
Learn More
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The Super Plunge
24 hours. One brave soul. The ultimate commitment to the Flame of Hope.
Learn More
Thank You to Our 2026 Sponsors
The Torch Run is made possible by the generous support of our community partners.
Bottaro Injury Lawyers
Newport Propane
RI Police Chiefs Association
Sterry St Towing
