By Judith Dorato O’Gara

Did you know that you can purchase of patch of the Franklin Police Department’s own resident golden retriever? The town’s beloved “Ben Franklin” has been immortalized in a patch, the sales of which benefit the Franklin Police Patrol Union. 

“Basically, the patrol union has done a lot over the years. We do various different types of fundraising and 100% of that money would go back into our community,” says Franklin Police Officer Paul Guarino. Sales of the Ben Franklin patch are earmarked for such community policing measures as DARE camp, an annual senior dinner, the annual Halloween party and other efforts to keep a strong relationship between the department and the community of Franklin. 

“Not just the union, but the actual Police Department is selling those patches,” says Guarino. Those looking for patches can get in touch with the Community Service Unit or look for us at various town events. “Our Instagram is a good place,” says Guarino. “We’ll promote new patches and seasonal patches, including breast cancer awareness, autism awareness to represent all kids.”