December 14, 2019
By Natalie Cook Clark
The Katy ISD Police Department is spreading holiday cheer through their annual Santa Cops program, and with their special seasonal recruit, Officer Elfon Shelf.
Santa Cops Program Continues to Grow
For 17 years, Katy ISD police officers have delivered holiday cheer to many children in the community. The Santa Cops program has grown from bringing gifts and cheer to 30 students in 2002 to 1,110 students this year.
“Katy ISD and local community members and businesses have been so supportive,” says Liz Loocke, police services specialist. This year the Landry’s company donated for 230 kids and schools like Adams Junior High donated for 81 kids.
Each Child Receives $100 Worth of Toys
School counselors submitted students' names to receive the donations. Families were assigned a number for picking up the wrapped toys, valued at $100 per child.
Popular donated items include: Legos, Barbies, Hot Wheels, RC Cars, and Craft Kits. This year's donations filled a large conference room and stretched down a long hallway.
“I am so proud of the involvement by students and staff this year," says Loocke. "Everyone did a great job of getting excited and motivating their campus to help out. We also received so much support from the community.”
Officer Elfon Shelf Reports for Holiday Duty
Officer Elfon Shelf represents another wonderful and fun holiday tradition celebrated by the Katy ISD police officers. Although he resembles the well-known "Elf on the Shelf" character, Officer Shelf travels around more like a "Flat Stanley" and poses for pictures with strangers, or perhaps, in strange locations.
"Officer Shelf joined the Katy ISD Police Department in December 2014 and has had many adventures during his time with us including being kidnapped and held for ransom in 2018,” says Captain Tabor.
Officer Shelf was brought to life by Captain Tabor, and his wife Alicia created his uniform.
Dedicated Taylor Mustang Fan
This holiday season, Officer Shelf has attended Katy high school football games. He was even spotted last week at Taylor High School's historic quarterfinal playoff game.
“He is routinely assigned to work any playoff games during his on-duty hours,” says Tabor.
Follow Officer Elfon Shelf's holiday adventures on Katy ISD Police Department's Facebook Page.
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