VPPD, Lartigue humbled by community’s support

Ville Platte Chief of Police Neal Lartigue and the rest of the VPPD have been humbled by the recent outpouring of support from the community.
“With all of the shootings in other areas, that have involved police officers losing their lives, it is comforting to see such a show of support from our local community,” said Lartigue, in a statement released Tuesday. “People have walked up to our officers to shake their hands, offer words of encouragement and prayers. This has lifted their spirits and we appreciate the outpouring of support and love.”
In recent weeks, VPPD has had cinnamon rolls delivered to them by Mr. and Mrs. John Saunders, crosses and rosaries and other religious jewelry by Blake’s Gifts, a wooden police cross by a local citizen who saw it at a store and thought of the department, and Woodmen of the World’s Ricky Sonnier bringing a new American Flag to the department, which is currently being flown at half staff in honor of the three police officers who were recently killed in Baton Rouge.
In the release, Lartigue stated they were not able to get photos of these kind acts when they occurred but everyone at the department appreciates each and every prayer, gift, thought and act of kindness.
The outpouring of support continued on Tuesday when Lartigue and his administrative staff were visited by the Ville Platte Boys and Girls Club, who gave VPPD handmade support posters for their hard work, and by residents of Chateau Des Amis who brought homemade cakes.
“It was so nice to see young people appreciate our efforts and they were able to visit with some of our older community who came to show their support,” Lartigue said. “Our lobby was full of caring people and it was welcomed and appreciated.”
Paul Vidrine also cooked Boston butt sandwiches for the department. Vidrine said that it was his way of giving back and he wanted to show his appreciation for everything the officers and department staff do to protect and serve.
“Thank you to each and every one of you who took time out of your busy schedules to meet with us, bring us tokens of appreciation and pray for us,” Lartigue said, “We ask that you continue to pray for police officers everywhere and continue to pray for our country.”