LOGAN SQUARE — Drivers traveling on Fullerton Avenue Friday morning were treated to an interesting sight — cops on a rooftop.
Officers from the Shakespeare District were perched atop the Dunkin' Donuts at 2565 W. Fullerton Ave. to raise money for the Illinois Law Enforcement Torch Run, which in turn raises money for Special Olympics Illinois.
The officers — including Cmdr. Francis "Frank" Valadez — took turns hanging out on the Dunkin' Donuts roof and working the corner to solicit donations from morning commuters.
"I think this is the easier part," Valadez said from his rooftop perch. "I get to wave at everybody passing by."
The Dunkin' Donuts was among 20 across the city participating in the fundraiser, in addition to others throughout the suburbs.
"I think it works," Valadez said. "We greet people as they're coming in for their morning coffee and they get a free doughnut" for donating.
The scene was a little different down on the ground, where officers were dodging cars and trucks as they collected donations in their hats.
"It's tough being in the middle of traffic there," Sgt. Felipe Reyes said. "The airplane pull was easier."
Last year, law enforcement officers from across the state gathered at O'Hare to actually pull an jetliner to raise money for the Special Olympics.
Still the officers hopped between speeding cars with good humor.
"This is fun," Officer Jason Slater said. "Knowing where the money's going, this is fun."
The officers will be at the Dunkin' Donuts accepting donations and giving away free doughnuts until 2 p.m.
