Bikers will ride to help officer

The fundraiser is in honor of Bryan Lawrence, who was left paralyzed after trying to stop a suspect.

By Marvin Anderson
981-3340

The Roanoke Police Department is sponsoring a fundraiser for an officer who was beaten and paralyzed while attempting to subdue a suspect earlier this month.

The motorcycle run in honor of Officer Bryan Lawrence is set to begin June 14 at the Roanoke Civic Center.

Lawrence was paralyzed from the chest down during the May 10 assault. He is now a patient at Shepherd Center in Atlanta, where he is undergoing rehabilitation. It's unclear whether his paralysis is temporary or how long his recovery could take.

Sgt. Bob Chandler said after he heard of the severity of Lawrence's injuries, two retired police officers called him and said they wanted to organize an event to help Lawrence.

Much of Lawrence's medical treatment is covered by insurance, but Chandler said Lawrence and his family will experience many unforeseen costs.

"The expenses of the family, of traveling, adds up more than any one can imagine," Chandler said. "He's going to have to make changes. All that takes money."

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