Shaquille O’Neal, hundreds of bikers cruise through Henry County for unity ride

HENRY COUNTY, Ga. — Hundreds of motorcycles cruised through Henry County Saturday morning with basketball legend Shaquille O’Neal at the helm.

No, it wasn’t a biker gang, but the Sheriff’s Office’s “Ride 4 Unity” event to bring together law enforcement and the community.

The event showcased a spectacular array of motorcycles, ATVs, and other vehicles that paraded through from Locust Grove to Ellenwood.

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Around 500 officers, elected officials and participants hopped on their personal motorcycles for the event. Henry County Sheriff’s Office deputies and other law enforcement officials rode bikes and then hosted a discussion to talk about any concerns the public may have with law enforcement.

“It’s a great day. I just love seeing people interact. I’ve always said that sports and music are the one thing that bring people together and you can add bike-riding to that.” O’Neal said. “We just wanted to have a nice, clean, safe ride.”

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“The relationship between law enforcement and the community is tremendously fractured,” officials said. “It is important that we plant the seed of unity and continue to water and nurture it so that a stronger relationship will come to fruition. This event is the first step towards closing the divide.”

O’Neal is the community relations director for the Henry County Sheriff’s Office.

The event was sponsored by Pepsi Stronger Together.

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