MN FOP Supports MN COPS

The Minnesota Fraternal Order of Police Foundation recently made a significant contribution of $1,000 to Minnesota Concerns of Police Survivors (COPS) during the annual Ballin in DC Basketball Tournament, which has been held for 13 years in Dakota County. FOP - South Metro Lodge 14 contributed $1200 to this same cause. This tournament honors fallen law enforcement heroes, especially those tragically lost in 2024, including Burnsville Officers Paul Elmstrand and Matthew Ruge, as well as Firefighter/Paramedic Adam Finseth, Minneapolis Police Officer Jamal Mitchell, National Park Service Ranger Kevin Grossheim and Red Lake Nation Police Officer Jesse Branch.

The proceeds will support COPS, an organization that assists the families of officers killed in the line of duty, providing year-round programs and resources for survivors. The event was held April 19, 2025, at Burnsville High School, welcoming the public for a day of competitive basketball, concessions, and raffles. 20 teams of officers from around the state competed in the tournament raising over $35,000 for COPS. Sgt. Jeremiah Simonson from the Rosemount Police Department led a large number of volunteers and worked tirelessly to make sure these heroes are never forgotten.

Minnesota Fallen

FOP Donation to COPS

FOP Table - Ballin in DC Basketball Tournament

Sgt Jeremiah Simonson