BENTON COUNTY — Ordinarily a sign of carefree childhood, pinwheels spinning in the wind next week will serve as a visual reminder of children who have been abused in Benton County.
More than 400 pinwheels will be placed in the lawn just north of the Pea Ridge Police station Monday representing the 416 substantiated cases of child abuse reported in Benton County last year, according to Beverly Engle with CAC, who said that number is down from 2010.
“Our dream is that less children are being abused,” she said, adding that more children were actually seen at CAC, but it’s difficult to discern if there are actually fewer cases of abuse.
Mayor Jackie Crabtree said: “I think this is something that a lot of times flies under the radar and it’s something we need to be aware of and be proactive with whatever help we can be.”
Pea Ridge police are participating in the 10th annual “Step up for Justice Rally” Pinwheels for Prevention sponsored by Rogers Police Monday, April 2. The event will begin at Dave Peel Park across from the Benton County courthouse with music from the First Baptist Christian School choir. Hot dogs and drinks will be available at 11:30 a.m. and at noon, Benton County Judge Bob Clinard will read a proclamation affirming April as Child Abuse and Prevention and Awareness month. After a presentation of shining stars to law enforcement personnel by representatives of Children’s Advocacy Center, law enforcement personnel from Bentonville, Bella Vista and Pea Ridge police departments and the Benton County Sheriff’s Office will travel to five locations to set the pinwheels.
“We welcome any one who wants to come help,” Pea Ridge Police Chief Tim Ledbetter said.
News, Pages 1 on 03/28/2012