Tea, candle shops sell goods to support family of fallen Spalding County sergeant
Selling teas for Sgt. Marc McIntyre
The death of Sgt. Marc McIntyre with the Spalding County Sheriff's Office devastated the community. While many people mourned, some found a way to give back to his family. Downtown Nutrition in Griffin, Georgia is selling blue "Police Tea" to raise money for his loved ones.
GRIFFIN, Ga. - A Griffin tea shop known as a proud supporter of law enforcement announced they would be selling a new drink with profits going to the family who lost a loved one in the line of duty in Spalding County.
"I thought it was just going to be something small that we could take to Sheriff Dix and be like, ‘This is because we love our officers.' But, it's turned into so much more," said Danielle Stamps, Owner of Downtown Nutrition in Griffin.
Sgt. Marc McIntyre with the Spalding County Sheriff's Office was shot and killed while responding to a domestic call on Deason Street in Griffin.
His death was felt all over the community as hundreds of people turned out to a vigil held in his honor Saturday evening.
Police Tea (Credit: Downtown Nutrition Griffin, Ga | Facebook)
Downtown Nutrition began selling the limited-edition blue Police Tea for $2 a cup on Dec. 30. A spokesperson for the shop says it will go on through Jan. 13. A portion of sales for each drink will be sent to the Spalding County Sheriff's Office as well as McIntyre's family.
"Even if it's just to help them pay a bill or not have to go back to work so fast after this whatever it is to help ease their pain," Stamps said.
Since Saturday, Griffin’s ‘Downtown Nutrition’ has sold more than 200 drinks. On Tuesday, a local medical facility called in an order for more than 30.
"I'm glad I get to come in here and get the option to get something for the officers here and that money gets to go to something great," said customer Kayla Black.
Meanwhile, a Georgia-based candle company is doing something similar.
Zebulon Bath and Candle Co. is selling the "Officer 208 Candle" online for $16. Customers can order from a variety of scents like Apples and Maple Bourbon, Frankincense and Mryhh, Watermelon, Peppermint Sugar Cookie and more.
All profits from each candle sold will go to the McIntyre family, according to the company's website.
The sheriff's department posted a warning to Facebook about fake fundraisers: "Even at a time like this, scammers prey on those who are suffering, so be careful."
Who is Sgt. Marc McIntyre?
Sgt. McIntyre served with the Spalding County Sheriff's Office for 8-½ years. He moved up through the ranks, eventually becoming a supervisor in the patrol division and a SWAT team member. Learn more about his legacy here.
Related: Memorial service announced for Spalding County deputy killed in line of duty
Sgt. Marc McIntyre (Credit: Spalding County Sheriff's Office)