East High School Students Start Fund To Help Injured Officer
DENVER (CBS4) – East High School students have started a fundraising effort to help a Denver police officer who was struck and run over by a car during protests by students last week.
"We wanted to do something to help because we thought it was our fault," said East High student Alyssa Rifo.
Denver Police Bike Patrol Officer John Adsit, 35, was seriously injured while assisting with a protest on East Colfax Avenue by the students on Dec. 3.
"I didn't protest because of the specific Michael Brown issue, I protested because I believe racism is an issue in the United States," said East High student Addie Glass.
About 500 students walked out of classes and marched down Colfax Avenue.
"I think it's really cool our school is willing to stand up for something they believe in," said Rifo.
The plan was for a peaceful protest but things quickly escalated when four Denver Police Bike Patrol officers were struck by a vehicle. Adsit was critically hurt.
"He was out there protecting us, helping us and his life was on the line for us," said East High student Catherine Mueller.
The students started collecting signatures and messages of support for a get well poster for Adsit. That quickly turned into a fundraiser on GoFundMe.
"We all just feel terrible, we want to do something to help him and his family get through this," said East High student Daniele Melina.
"It's the least we can give to him for doing his job for us," said East High student Amanda West.
The protest taught some lessons to the East High students including how important it is to get a permit to protest. The greater lesson they say is the need to reach out to those who are working to keep the community safe.
Students plan more fundraisers for January.
A GoFundMe account in Adsit's name is collecting funds to help with his recovery.
LINK: GoFundMe - John Adsit
