BEATRICE, Neb - Of the many historic relics one can collect when it comes to law enforcement, the most universal might be police patches and the Beatrice Police Department proudly displays a collection of its own.

In the administration area of the station sits Lt. Jay Murphy’s colorful collection of both local, national, and even international department patches. He says the hobby began in early 90’s.

“Started collecting them because we’d go to trainings and everyone wants to exchange patches and that’s where it started,” Murphy said.

Murphy says officers and departments commonly exchange challenge coins or patches when meeting at a class. When Murphy’s collection began to expand and grow into what it’s now become, he knew it was time to put them on display, and what better place then the station?

“I figured it was better than leaving them in a tote,” Murphy said. “I have about this many, maybe more, still in a tote and there’s no other place to put them. Other departments may put them around the edge of the ceiling, but I like them like this.”

 

When hosting groups, tours, or BPD’s lunch with a cop, Murphy says the patch board is often a popular spot for pictures with the colors and patterns providing a unique backdrop.

However, the display means more to Murphy and the officer of BPD than just a neat display. It shows a strong bond law enforcement shares around the globe.

“We're one big family," Murphy said. "We're proud to display our patch, it tells about the community you live in and that's why I think it's important to departments to do it."

As for Lt. Murphy’s favorite patch…

“I kind of like the North Pole patch,” Murphy said. “That’s something we always show the kids when they come in and say it’s Santa’s patch.”