Auction of Sports Items to Benefit Police Program

Autographed boxing gloves from Muhammad Ali, a signed football from Troy Aikman and a batting helmet with Pete Rose’s signature are among the sports items up for bid at the Los Angeles Police Department Explorers auction.

The Feb. 8 event at the Omni Hotel in downtown Los Angeles will benefit the department’s Youth Explorer program for participants between 14 and 20, who learn about law enforcement and public service while taking classes at the Police Academy. More than 25 items will be up for bid.

The money will be used for summer trips. “It’s a reward for the kids after they work so hard all year,” said Officer Michael Pauley, auction organizer.

Auction items may be viewed beginning at 9 a.m. Bidding will be from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Information: (213) 847-3373.