You’ll See A Lot Of Law Enforcement at Rochester’s Walmart on Saturday

The holiday shopping season is off to a hot start with consumers spending more than in previous years. Shoppers spent more than $5.3 billion online on Thanksgiving, more than $9 billion on Black Friday, a little over $4.5 billion on Small Business Saturday and an estimated $11.3-billion was spent on Cyber Monday.

Another busy shopping weekend is expected as people cross names off of their Christmas lists. Retail locations are hoping for big crowds. If you're heading out to Walmart this weekend you'll notice a large law enforcement presence.

Shoppers heading to Rochester's North Walmart on Saturday will notice a large law enforcement presence. You will see several patrol cars outside of the store and uniformed officers will be inside.

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Officers from the Rochester Police Department, Olmsted County Sheriff’s Office and the Minnesota State Patrol will be at the store Saturday, December 3rd between noon-3pm.

There's no reason to worry though.

The agencies are teaming up for the annual Shop with a Cop event.

How Are Southeast Minnesota Kids Selected to Shop With a Cop?

According to an RPD press release, "Schools identified 65 kids to participate in this year’s Shop with a Cop."

Police Chief Jim Franklin shares: “Shop with a Cop is a wonderful way to brighten the holidays for local families while building positive relationships with young people. It is such a joy for RPD to participate in this holiday giving tradition.”

How Does Shop With a Cop Work?

Each child will be paired up with a LEO and each of them will receive a $110 Walmart gift card to purchase presents for themselves and family members.

After the shopping is completed the kids and officers will have a special lunch and get to check out the police vehicles.