PHOTOS: Back the Blue ride raises $1,700 for Christmas programs in Richmond, Scotland counties

ROCKINGHAM — More than 50 bikers participated in the fifth annual Back the Blue Ride, bringing in $1,721 to help local law enforcement provide presents for youngsters in Richmond and Scotland counties.

Although this year’s total is only a 10th of what was raised in 2023, it’s $1,000 more than the first ride collected — despite having quadruple the participation in 2020.

The amount raised had grown steadily: $700 in 2020; $12,000 in 2021; $14,000 in 2022; and $17,000 in 2023.

The ride was started by longtime Laurinburg PD officer Chris Jackson — at the urging of his wife — following a nationwide backlash against law enforcement. Jackson took a break this year, with Kevin Powell, one of his fellow officers, taking the handlebars.

In a Facebook post, Jackson thanked Powell for stepping up and “keeping this ride alive,” with only a month and a half to plan.

In addition to the bikes, Powell said there was also participation from a fire truck and a Jeep.

The money raised will be split between the Rockingham and Laurinburg police departments, and the sheriffs’ offices in Richmond and Scotland County.

The ride started at the Bistro in Laurinburg, with that group meeting up with others at the Hide-A-Way Tavern north of Rockingham. After leaving the bar, the convoy rolled past the law enforcement agencies in both counties.

The Rockingham Police Department posted a video as the bikes passed by.

After returning to the Bistro, live music was provided by the Blewett Dam Band.

Monetary donations will be accepted until Dec. 7. To make a donation, contact Powell through Facebook, or by email at kpowell@laurinburg.org.

Jackson is already making preparations for next year’s event.