News Article

Archived News Release: November 1, 2017 - ​Some keen-eyed Ann Arbor residents may have noticed that the face of policing has changed in recent weeks. As of Oct. 1, some Ann Arbor Police officers began to wear beards or goatees on patrol. This is the first time in the department's history that such facial hair has been allowed. Up until this point, only the traditional mustache was acceptable.

Proposed by the Ann Arbor Police Officer's Association, the new facial hair policy was seen as a way for officers to update their appearance while supporting a charity. Each member of the department who grew a beard or goatee agreed to donate $15 each month to charity. The AAPOA is selecting an appropriate charity each month to receive the donations.

For the month of October, all donated funds are going to the Magic of Christmas Foundation. This charity, started by Debbie Williams-Hoak, aims to bring holiday cheer to children in need. Williams-Hoak, a former University of Michigan track athlete and former LPGA tour player, has partnered with the Ann Arbor Police Department for years in order to help families who otherwise may not be able to experience a Christmas celebration with gifts.

Families in need are identified by various local agencies. The foundation then gathers gifts from the children's wish lists and packages them for delivery. Special "elves," many of whom are officers in uniform, deliver the presents on Christmas Eve.

For the month of October, 29 officers participated to raise $435 for charity. The AAPOA and Ann Arbor Police Benevolent Association are working to determine which charities will be chosen for the coming months. Many officers have expressed that they enjoy being able to give back to the community; and updating their appearance is also seen as an added benefit.

The new facial hair policy is scheduled for a six-month evaluation period. After that time, AAPD Chief Jim Baird will determine whether to continue the program. In the meantime, the department is seeking feedback on the new look via its social media pages. In the coming days, the AAPD will be sharing pictures of officers and a poll for citizens to share their opinions on the beards.

Stay tuned to the AAPD social media pages, at www.facebook.com/annarborpolice/ , https://twitter.com/a2police, or https://nextdoor.com/city/ann-arbor--mi/.

To learn more about the Magic of Christmas Foundation, visit www.magicofchristmasfoundation.org.

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