Brownwood Police officers hosted a benefit brisket lunch fundraiser to support one of their own on Tuesday, at the Brown County Law Enforcement Center in Brownwood.

According to Brownwood Police Department, Officer Dustin Bode lost his wife in an unexpected death on Monday.  The Brownwood Police officers with help of the Brown County Sheriff’s Office, Lake Patrol, Brownwood Fire Department and other agencies worked quickly to organize the fundraiser and cooked 16 briskets.  However, that wasn’t enough as the orders poured in immediately after notice of the event was given Monday.  This caused the event to temporarily run out of food while organizers waited for more food donations to arrive.

“We started the luncheon with 16 briskets.   We sold out in less than 45 minutes.  In total today we sold out of 25 briskets and over 70lbs of sausage,” Brownwood Municipal Police Association President Officer Ray Slayton said.   “I knew we worked for a great community, so I’m not surprised in the turnout.  I was pleasantly shocked that we were able to sell out with such short notice of the luncheon.”

The lunchtime fundraiser offered brisket sandwiches and brisket plates and also accepted any donations above the cost of the plate.  Funds raised will help pay for funeral expenses and the Bode family’s everyday needs.

“The BMPA would like to thank all the great business and individuals that contributed to this benefit,” said Slayton. “There are too many to list.”

Slayton stated that the BMPA asks that the community keep the Bode family in their prayers and thoughts.  The Bode Memorial account will remain open at American State Bank and it is asked that any further donations be made at the ASB  branch located at 1221 Austin Avenue in Brownwood.