In addition to performing their regular road duties in December, patrol deputies with the St. John Sheriff’s Office were given a special assignment by Sheriff Mike Tregre. Sheriff Tregre stressed that this assignment was of the utmost importance — report to Santa who has been working with local organizations for Operation Spread Christmas Cheer.

Partnering with St. Peter Church’s Giving Tree Project and Monsignor Jean Eyraud Knights of Columbus, officers were happy to take on these extra duties as Santa’s helpers, delivering toys, clothes, food, water, and other items to several families throughout St. John the Baptist Parish.

The SJSO also partnered with Marathon Petroleum and Buddy B’s to deliver Christmas lunches to members of the Protect Our Precious Seniors (POPS) program.

“It was a pleasure to work with some community partners to make Christmas wishes come true for a few families,” Sheriff Tregre said. “We really enjoyed spreading the Christmas spirit.”

Deputy Ingrid Perrilloux spearheaded this operation for the SJSO with the help of Santa, also known as Deputy Jose Portillo, the Grinch also known as Deputy Grant Pierre, and several patrol officers.