Fairfield California Police Chief Dan Marshall is taking a bold stand, vowing to resign if the city compels his officers to assist with a Christmas toy run that involves the Hells Angels. Marshall, citing personal reservations about the motorcycle club, asserts, “This is a hill I’m willing to die on.” Despite the tradition of the Samoa Mission Christmas Toy Run, which benefits 400 children, Marshall declares that Fairfield police will no longer provide an escort due to discomfort with the Hells Angels’ involvement.
Mission Samoa director Gene Ahu, who initiated the toy drive 19 years ago, emphasizes the event’s focus on children and expresses concerns about rider safety without a police escort. However, Chief Marshall remains firm, stating, “I do not support, ever, any criminal organization. I will not support it now.” The controversy surrounding this community toy drive has garnered attention, with the city council supporting Marshall’s decision, and Ahu now exploring alternative ways to ensure a safe toy run without police assistance.
