MONROE, La. (KNOE) -Thirty elementary students in West Monroe spent Thursday evening racing through the aisles at Academy Sports + Outdoors, each armed with a $100 gift card and a big holiday surprise.

For the fourth year in a row, West Monroe Police partnered with Academy Sports + Outdoors to host the “Shop with a Cop” event—giving local kids in need a chance to pick out sports gear, clothing, and more.

Police Corporal Ron Chapman says this is one of his favorite traditions because it’s all about the smiles. He explained that seeing kids light up as they choose gifts for themselves makes the effort worthwhile.

The students were selected from five elementary schools within West Monroe city limits. Chapman says he works with principals to identify children who could benefit most from the

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