The Crime Stoppers Examiner
Courtesy of: Northeast Mississippi Daily Journal
Blue Steel Challenge draws big turnout
Tupelo, Miss
Blue Steel Challenge draws big turnout
9/27/2008 10:21:17 PM
BY DANZA JOHNSON
TUPELO - Even though this year's Blue Steel Challenge didn't top last year's attendance numbers, Northeast Mississippi CrimeStoppers Coordinator Tim Tate said it was just as successful.
In the Blue Steel Challenge's fifth year, 80 members of law enforcement from throughout the state competed for the title of best shooter Saturday at the Tupelo Police Academy. The event raises money to pay rewards for people who provide CrimeStoppers with tips that lead to arrests and convictions.
Tate was pleased with the attendance of this event and how popular it's become. People are really enjoying each other and it's good for officers to network and meet guys from other departments.
Jess Carter of the Tupelo Police Department and Bethany Clemons and Candance Findley, both of the Grenada County Sheriff's Department, were three of the women competing in a male-dominated field, but that didn't seem to be a problem for them.
"We've been having a good time" said Carter. "I feel like I'm doing pretty well"
Both rookies to the event, Clemons and Findley also felt they were holding their own in the competition.
Tate said in addition to the officers, vendors also were helpful in making the challenge a success. Several vendors dealing law enforcement equipment were there to provide support.