<p class="text | article-text">PETAL, Miss. (WDAM) - Several drivers in Petal like Alissa Nixon saw flashing blue lights Wednesday and immediately went into panic mode.</p>
<p class="text | article-text">&ldquo;I just wanted to get home,&rdquo; Nixon said. &ldquo;I just got out of class.&rdquo;</p>
<p class="text | article-text">But officers weren&rsquo;t stopping them to hand out a ticket.</p>
<p class="text | article-text">Instead, they wanted to share a little help for the holiday season.</p>
<p class="text | article-text">&ldquo;In total (Wednesday), we handed out $500,&rdquo; Petal Police Department Chief Matthew Hiatt said.</p>
<p class="text | article-text">Petal police carried on a two-year-old tradition with donations from an anonymous resident.</p>
<p class="text | article-text">Erin Austin was stopped over by Keith&rsquo;s Gas Station on Main Street and thought the worse when she saw Officer Emily Holder walking toward her car.</p>
<p class="text | article-text">&lsquo;I saw her with a pen out,&rdquo; Austin said. &ldquo;I thought she was writing something. I&rsquo;ve got to contact my insurance. They&rsquo;re gonna make it all go up.&rdquo;</p>
<p class="text | article-text">The surprise came just in time for Jennifer Cripps as her family prepared to spend Christmas without two vital members.</p>
<p class="text | article-text">&ldquo;My husband&rsquo;s deployed, and my son&rsquo;s also deployed,&rdquo; Cripps said, &ldquo;So, it just meant a lot.&rdquo;</p>
<p class="text | article-text">Hiatt and his team were thankful for a chance to put a smile on people&rsquo;s faces and not a look of nervousness.</p>
<p class="text | article-text">&ldquo;It really does our heart good just to be a part of something that provides maybe just a little something extra this time of year,&rdquo; Hiatt said.</p>
<p class="text | article-text">The feeling was mutual for everyone involved.</p>
<p class="text | article-text">&ldquo;It&rsquo;s just awesome to see them be able to get smiles as well because I know they&rsquo;re not used to seeing the good side of people,&rdquo; Austin said.</p>
<p class="text | article-text">&nbsp;</p>

Community Involvement

Petal police officers hand out gifts Wednesday, not tickets.

Petal police officers surprise drivers with monetary gifts for holidays

<p dir="ltr">In the early morning hours of June 30, a serious three-vehicle crash occurred in Sarasota, sparking an immediate life-saving response from nearby police officers. Their training and decisive action were critical in saving a woman&rsquo;s life at a dangerous and chaotic scene.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">A Nearby Crash and an Immediate Response</h2>
<p dir="ltr">Officers from the Sarasota Police Department were across the street on an unrelated call at the SR 45 / SR 683 split (US 41 / US 301) when they heard the collision. They immediately notified dispatch and ran to the scene to provide assistance. Upon arriving, they saw that one of the involved vehicles was on fire.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">A Rescue from a Burning Vehicle</h2>
<p dir="ltr">Bodycam footage shows the officers approaching the burning wreckage, where they found an unconscious woman still buckled into the driver's seat. The audio captures their urgent, clear communication, including phrases like "The vehicle is on fire!" and "go, go, go!" as they coordinated their actions.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The officers worked quickly, opening the car door and using a seatbelt cutter to free the driver. They then pulled the unconscious woman from the vehicle and moved her to a safe distance, just moments before the car became fully engulfed in flames.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Official Account and Ongoing Investigation</h2>
<p dir="ltr">In a statement, the Sarasota Police Department confirmed the outcome of the officers' actions. &ldquo;Their swift and selfless actions saved a life,&rdquo; the department wrote. &ldquo;A job well done by these officers who continue to serve with courage, commitment, and dedication to protecting others.&rdquo;</p>
<p dir="ltr">The crash remains under investigation by the department&rsquo;s Traffic Unit. This incident serves as a factual record of the risks officers face and the critical importance of their presence at emergency scenes. The actions of these officers are why we share these accounts. You can explore <a href="https://welovepolice.org/stories">more stories</a> or check our <a href="https://welovepolice.org/church-partner">Church Partners Program</a>.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Source Credits</h2>
<ul>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Primary Story/Video Source: Official social media post from the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=1232867434676864&amp;rdid=0KXnctEjNOrwfpil">Sarasota Police Department</a></p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Additional Source: <a href="https://www.heraldtribune.com/story/news/local/2025/07/09/sarasota-officers-rescue-driver-after-fiery-wreck/84513084007/">&lsquo;Swift and selfless&rsquo;: Sarasota Police officers save unconscious woman from burning car</a> - Sarasota Herald-Tribune (by Melissa Pérez-Carrillo).&nbsp;</p>
</li>
</ul>
<h2 dir="ltr">FAQs</h2>
<ol>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<h3 dir="ltr" role="presentation">Do police officers respond to incidents they aren't dispatched to?</h3>
</li>
</ol>
<p dir="ltr">Yes, absolutely. An officer's duty to act extends to any emergency they witness, regardless of their current assignment. In this case, the officers heard the collision and immediately took action because their primary responsibility is public safety. This highlights an officer's constant situational awareness and commitment to responding whenever and wherever they are needed.</p>
<ol start="2">
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<h3 dir="ltr" role="presentation">What rescue tools do police officers typically carry?</h3>
</li>
</ol>
<p dir="ltr">Patrol officers are equipped with various rescue tools on their police duty belt equipment or in their vehicles to handle emergencies. This often includes a seatbelt cutter, which is crucial for extricating trapped individuals, as well as a window punch to break tempered glass and first aid kits for rendering aid.</p>
<ol start="3">
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<h3 dir="ltr" role="presentation">How do officers manage a chaotic accident scene?</h3>
</li>
</ol>
<p dir="ltr">Accident scene management is a core part of police procedure. The first on scene must rapidly assess threats, request necessary resources like fire and EMS, and begin life-saving efforts. They work on securing the perimeter to prevent further accidents and directing traffic until specialized units like the Traffic Division can take over the investigation.</p>

Acts of Heroism

See the intense bodycam footage as Sarasota PD officers run toward a fiery crash and pull an unconscious driver from a burning car just in time.


Sarasota Police Pull Unconscious Woman from Fiery Car Crash

Bodycam Captures Sarasota PD's Rescue at Fiery Crash Scene

<p dir="ltr">On a quiet Tuesday in a South Phoenix apartment complex, a story of profound loss and hope of survival began with a single phone call. It began with a simple, observant act from a neighbor and ended with a life-saving rescue by the Phoenix Police Department. Officers responding to a welfare check were confronted with a tragic scene, but their swift actions and gentle compassion ensured a newborn baby, found clinging to life, would have a future.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">A Concerned Call and a Somber Discovery</h2>
<p dir="ltr">On May 14th, a resident near Central Avenue and Illini Street called the police with a simple concern: they hadn't seen or heard from their neighbor, a new mother, for several days. Packages were beginning to pile up outside her door. This single act of community observation, a perfect example of "see something, say something", set in motion a critical police emergency response.</p>
<p dir="ltr">When officers arrived, they looked through an unlocked window and saw the woman motionless on the floor. On a nearby bed, they saw a tiny, emaciated infant. The bodycam footage captures the quiet urgency as an officer says, "The baby's here... Yeah, the baby's here, and the baby is still alive."</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Forced Entry, A Gentle Rescue</h2>
<p dir="ltr">Recognizing the need for immediate access, the officers made the decision to make a forced entry, breaking the door to get inside. The footage then shows an officer approach the infant, softly says "hi," and gently picks the baby up, whispering, "It's gonna be OK." He carefully placed the baby in a stroller and rushed outside to meet the responding Phoenix Fire Department crew for emergency medical care.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The careful handling and soft words spoken to the child are a clear demonstration of the officers' professionalism and compassion.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">A Bittersweet Outcome and Inter-Agency Collaboration</h2>
<p dir="ltr">The newborn was transported to a nearby hospital in critical condition, described by police as "severely dehydrated and emaciated." Tragically, the officers' initial discovery was confirmed: the baby's mother had passed away several days prior.</p>
<p dir="ltr">In the aftermath, a seamless process of inter-agency collaboration began. The Office of the Medical Examiner started its investigation into the mother's death, while the detective investigation by Phoenix Police proceeded. Most importantly, Child Protective Services (DCS) was brought in to manage the emergency custody of the infant and work with family members.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Sergeant Brian Bower later commended the officers' quick thinking and praised the neighbor whose call was the catalyst for the rescue, noting the baby may not have survived without their intervention. The department also shared an uplifting update, confirming that thanks to the life-saving care from first responders and hospital staff, the baby's condition greatly improved and they are expected to make a full recovery.</p>
<p dir="ltr">This bittersweet story is more than just a headline; it's a profound example of how a community and its police department can create hope from tragedy. It highlights the quiet, compassionate work officers do every day, entering unknown situations and protecting the vulnerable.&nbsp;</p>
<p dir="ltr">These are the moments that define policing, and we are dedicated to sharing them. You can discover more <a href="https://welovepolice.org/tag/life-saving-actions">police stories</a> or learn how <a href="https://welovepolice.org/">We Love Police</a> brings these critical accounts to light.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Source Credits</h2>
<ul>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Primary Story/Video Source: Official social media post from the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=1259734545556195&amp;rdid=pkXETvmuPztNRyZr">Phoenix Police Department</a></p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Additional Source: <a href="https://abc3340.com/news/nation-world/sclinging-to-life-newborn-baby-found-beside-dead-mother-in-phoenix-apartment-police-arizona-bodycam-video-footage-death-investigation-severely-dehydrated-emaciated-medical-examiner-department-of-child-safety">&lsquo;Clinging to life&rsquo;: Newborn baby found beside dead mother in Phoenix apartment, police say</a> - ABC 33/40 News (by Jessica A. Botelho).&nbsp;</p>
</li>
</ul>
<h2 dir="ltr">FAQs</h2>
<h3 dir="ltr">1. What exactly is a police welfare check?&nbsp;</h3>
<p dir="ltr">A welfare check (or wellness check) is a visit by law enforcement to a person's home to verify their safety and well-being. These checks are typically initiated after a request from a friend, family member, or, as in this case, a concerned neighbor who has been unable to make contact with the individual. It is a vital service police provide for the community.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">2. What happens to a child in a situation like this?&nbsp;</h3>
<p dir="ltr">In emergencies where a child is found without a guardian, police work directly with Child Protective Services (DCS) or a similar state agency. Department of Child Safety takes emergency custody of the child to ensure their immediate safety and medical needs are met. They then work to identify and locate family members who may be able to provide care, making the child's long-term well-being the highest priority.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">3. When are police authorized to make a forced entry?&nbsp;</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Police can make a forced entry into a home without a warrant under specific, urgent circumstances known as "exigent circumstances." A prime example is when they have a reasonable belief that someone inside is in immediate danger of harm or death, such as during a welfare check where a person is unresponsive and a vulnerable child is present. This police procedure allows them to act immediately to save a life.</p>

After days alone, a baby is rescued by Arizona police. A powerful story of community partnership, quick thinking, and protecting the vulnerable.


Phoenix Police Welfare Check Leads to Miraculous Infant Rescue

A Bittersweet Story: Phoenix Police Find Baby Clinging to Life

<p dir="ltr">In the pre-dawn hours of July 4th, an illegal street race on Atlanta's Donald Lee Hollowell Parkway ended in a fiery crash. The event sparked a life-or-death rescue mission for responding Atlanta Police Department (APD) officers, testing their training and resolve in a situation where every second mattered.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">From Street Race to Fiery Wreckage</h2>
<p dir="ltr">Around 2 a.m., APD officers on patrol spotted a white Dodge Challenger drag racing. When they attempted a traffic stop, the car sped away. Adhering to departmental policy that prioritizes public safety over high-speed pursuits, the officers made the decision not to chase the fleeing vehicle.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Their patrol continued, and just minutes later, they came upon the aftermath of the driver's decision. The same Dodge Challenger had crashed into a vacant gas station and was on fire. The choice not to pursue had likely prevented a wider tragedy, but now the officers were faced with a new, urgent mission: a car fire rescue.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Split-Second Decisions at the Crash Scene</h2>
<p dir="ltr">The released bodycam video provides a raw, unfiltered look at the scene. Without hesitation, the officers are seen sprinting from their patrol car directly toward the burning vehicle. Heavy smoke billowed from the car's front end, which was smashed deep into the building&rsquo;s structure.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The footage captures the officers' immediate and decisive actions. They shattered the passenger-side window and began cutting through the deployed airbags to reach a trapped female passenger. They worked quickly and with purpose, pulling the woman through the window and carrying her to safety. As flames grew larger and lapped at the ground beneath the car, the officers ran back toward the wreck to assist the driver.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Rescue, Accountability, and a Partnership in Action</h2>
<p dir="ltr">The successful outcome was secured through effective inter-agency collaboration. Atlanta Fire Rescue arrived on the scene, extinguished the blaze, and safely extricated the driver from the mangled car. Both the driver and the passenger were transported for medical care in stable condition thanks to the coordinated efforts of both departments.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Following the incident, the driver, 24-year-old Ja&rsquo;Corey Bryant, was arrested and charged with a list of offenses, including reckless driving, laying drag, and driving with a suspended license. A stolen gun was also recovered from the vehicle.</p>
<p dir="ltr">While accountability was served, the actions of the officers stand out. They willingly entered an incredibly hazardous environment, an active car fire and crash scene, to save the lives of those whose choices created the peril. It&rsquo;s a stark reminder of the risks officers face and the courage they show in the line of duty. It is stories like these that form the core of our mission. You can discover more inspiring police stories and learn how We Love Police is committed to sharing them.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">FAQs</h2>
<ol>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<h3 dir="ltr" role="presentation">What should I do if you are in a car fire?</h3>
</li>
</ol>
<p dir="ltr">Safety experts advise that if you are in a car fire, your first priority is to get everyone out of the vehicle immediately. Pull over, turn off the engine, and move at least 100 feet away to avoid flames and toxic fumes. Never return to the vehicle for personal items. Call 911 once you are in a safe location.</p>
<ol start="2">
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<h3 dir="ltr" role="presentation">How do police and fire departments work together in rescues?</h3>
</li>
</ol>
<p dir="ltr">This rescue is a perfect example of effective inter-agency collaboration. Typically, police are the first to arrive at a crash scene. Their role is to secure the area, provide immediate aid, and perform initial rescues if it is safe to do so. Fire departments, with their specialized equipment, then handle fire suppression and complex extrication, ensuring a coordinated and effective response from first responder heroes.</p>

See true police heroism as APD officers run toward a fiery wreck to save two passengers. A powerful story of courage under fire in Atlanta.


APD Bodycam: Officers Pull Victims From Fiery Drag Racing Crash

Atlanta Police Car Fire Rescue After Dangerous Street Race

<p dir="ltr">The afternoon hum of the Cumberland Mall parking lot was broken by a sound no one wants to hear: the distressed cries of children. Trapped inside a sweltering car, two small kids were in grave danger. But on this day, a powerful community partnership between a concerned citizen and the Cobb County Police Department would turn a potential tragedy into a story of hope. It was a situation that required immediate action, and thanks to a bystander's quick thinking and a decisive police response, two young lives were saved.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">What Happened</h2>
<p dir="ltr">On the afternoon of June 4th, a woman exiting a Dick's Sporting Goods heard the crying and made a crucial 911 call. She reported seeing a little boy and a girl alone inside a vehicle. Though the windows were slightly cracked, it was no match for the Georgia heat. It was later determined that the children's father, J&rsquo;quawn Dixon, had been inside the mall for approximately 41 minutes.</p>
<p dir="ltr">While the outside temperature was 87 degrees, an infrared thermometer used by officers recorded the heat inside the car had reached a life-threatening 117 degrees. The children were found in the back seat, not properly restrained and suffering in the intense heat.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Officers&rsquo; Actions&nbsp;</h2>
<p dir="ltr">The police emergency response was swift and precise. Arriving at the scene, officers from the Cobb County Police quickly assessed the dire situation. The department's bodycam footage captures the urgency and professionalism of the moment. With no time to waste, one officer used his baton to police break the car window, a necessary action to save the children inside.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The sound of shattering glass was immediately followed by an officer reaching in to rescue the distressed children. This footage is a moving example showing not just tactical skill but the deep compassion behind the uniform. As one officer pulled a child to safety, he could be heard gently comforting them, saying, "It's OK, baby. It's OK. Ooh, you're hot.&rdquo; This combination of expert law enforcement training and empathy shows what protecting the community truly looks like.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Outcome and A Larger Perspective</h2>
<p dir="ltr">J&rsquo;quawn Dixon was arrested and charged by Georgia Police with two felony counts of second-degree child cruelty. But the story's true outcome is the safety of the two children, made possible by an incredible display of a community and police force working together.&nbsp;</p>
<p dir="ltr">The Cobb County Police Department later publicly praised the citizen heroes who made the call, stating, &ldquo;A big THANK YOU to the concerned citizens who called 911. Your quick action is the reason these kids are safe today. You saw something and did something, and that made all the difference.&rdquo;</p>
<p dir="ltr">This successful hot car rescue is a testament to the power of positive community engagement. It&rsquo;s one of those stories that demonstrates how everyday people can be the first line of defense, empowering law enforcement to do what they do best: save lives.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">A Call to Awareness</h2>
<p dir="ltr">This rescue is a powerful reminder of our shared responsibility in neighborhood safety. The vigilance of one person and the readiness of these officers prevented a tragedy that happens all too often. It&rsquo;s a sobering thought that highlights the importance of caregiver responsibility and&nbsp;</p>
<p dir="ltr">The message from safety resources like NoHeatStroke.org is clear: "Parents and other caregivers need to be educated that a vehicle is not a babysitter or play area... but it can easily become tragedy." Their research shows that since 1998, more than 1,025 children have died in hot cars.</p>
<p dir="ltr">If you see a child alone in a locked car, act immediately and call 911.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The bravery of these officers and the vigilance of a citizen show us what&rsquo;s possible when we look out for one another. It&rsquo;s why we believe in sharing these stories that inspire.&nbsp;</p>
<p dir="ltr">You can discover more inspiring police stories on our site or learn more about how <a href="https://welovepolice.org/">We Love Police</a> is working to highlight the positive actions of law enforcement every day.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">FAQs</h2>
<ol>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<h3 dir="ltr" role="presentation">What should I do if I see a child alone in a car?</h3>
</li>
</ol>
<p dir="ltr">Act immediately and call 911. A quick bystander intervention is the most critical first step. A child in distress due to heat should be removed from the vehicle as quickly as possible. Provide the dispatcher with the car's location, model, and license plate number if you can. Never hesitate to call for help.</p>
<ol start="2">
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<h3 dir="ltr" role="presentation">How dangerous is it to leave a child in a car, even for a minute?</h3>
</li>
</ol>
<p dir="ltr">It is extremely dangerous. A child's body temperature rises three to five times faster than an adult's, making them highly susceptible to heatstroke, which can be fatal.&nbsp;</p>
<ol start="3">
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<h3 dir="ltr" role="presentation">How common are hot car deaths in the U.S.?</h3>
</li>
</ol>
<p dir="ltr">Tragically, they are more common than people think. According to official hot car death statistics from the NHTSA, 39 children died of vehicular heatstroke in 2024. Data from NoHeatStroke.org shows that more than 1,025 children have died this way since 1998.</p>
<ol start="4">
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<h3 dir="ltr" role="presentation">Why do these incidents happen?</h3>
</li>
</ol>
<p dir="ltr">While circumstances vary, it's often not intentional. Research shows over half of these incidents happen when a stressed or distracted caregiver forgets a child is in the car. This highlights the importance of summer car safety routines, like placing a purse or phone in the back seat as a reminder to always check before locking your vehicle.</p>

A 911 call from a concerned citizen led to a life-saving hot car rescue by Georgia Police. A powerful story of community and police partnership.

Cobb County Police Hot Car Rescue Saves Two Young Children

Georgia Hot Car Rescue: A Story of Vigilance and Valor

<p dir="ltr">During the devastating Hurricane Helene flooding in Tennessee, a Tennessee Highway Patrol officer was pulled from rising water, and then immediately helped carry an injured man to safety.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Trooper Hannah Smathers had just finished a crash report when she was dispatched to check flood-prone Spivey Mountain Road. While conditions seemed manageable at first, the Hurricane Helene flash flood waters began to rise rapidly.</p>
<p dir="ltr">&ldquo;The creek had started rising and was quickly moving onto the roadway.&rdquo;</p>
<p dir="ltr">Smathers had just helped two pedestrians out of the area and offered aid to a stranded driver when she found herself surrounded by floodwater.</p>
<p dir="ltr">&ldquo;There was no way forward and no way back. I called it in and waited.&rdquo;</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Emergency Response Team Pulls Her to Safety</h2>
<p dir="ltr">A Hurricane Helene search and rescue team responded quickly. Smathers removed her vest and duty belt as they tossed her a rope and life jacket.</p>
<p dir="ltr">&ldquo;I had to take off my vest, my belt&mdash;everything. They threw me a lifejacket and a rope. But there was no harness. If I let go of that rope, I was going with the water.&rdquo;</p>
<p dir="ltr">&ldquo;The second I stepped away from my car, my feet were swept out from under me. I went underwater, but I held onto the rope. That was my only chance.&rdquo;</p>
<p dir="ltr">According to Jason Pack, a retired FBI special agent and now communications director for the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security, Smathers didn&rsquo;t pause and went right back to work the moment she was safe.</p>
<p dir="ltr">&ldquo;She radioed in, waited for help, and once she was safe, she went right back to work,&rdquo; Pack shared.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Back on Duty: Moments After Rescue</h2>
<p dir="ltr">Soaked and still covered in mud, Smathers quickly returned to duty. A nearby driver had broken his ankle. She helped carry him to safety.</p>
<p dir="ltr">&ldquo;Once I got out, I saw another driver had broken his ankle, so I helped carry him to safety too.&rdquo;</p>
<p dir="ltr">She remained on shift for 18 hours, despite the trauma and exhaustion.</p>
<p dir="ltr">&ldquo;Because it's what we do.&rdquo;</p>
<p dir="ltr">&ldquo;I know sometimes it sounds clich&eacute; when people say they just want to help others,&rdquo; she said. &ldquo;But that&rsquo;s really what this job is about. Helping people. Making sure they&rsquo;re safe. That&rsquo;s all I was trying to do that day.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Honoring a Trooper&rsquo;s Dedication</h2>
<p dir="ltr">&ldquo;Trooper Smathers showed exactly what we expect from the Highway Patrol troopers &ndash; calm under pressure and a heart for service,&rdquo; said Col. Matt Perry.</p>
<p dir="ltr">&ldquo;She didn&rsquo;t ask for attention. She just got the job done.&rdquo;</p>
<p dir="ltr">&ldquo;She showed courage, humility, and heart,&rdquo; added Commissioner Jeff Long. &ldquo;Whether in a flood, a crash scene, or a routine patrol, our troopers are out there every day making Tennessee safer.&rdquo;</p>
<p dir="ltr">Hurricane Helene caused catastrophic flooding and claimed over 230 lives across six states, including Tennessee, North Carolina, and Florida.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">A Story That Speaks for Thousands</h2>
<p dir="ltr">Trooper Smathers&rsquo; actions remind us that life-saving actions aren&rsquo;t always about the spotlight; sometimes, they&rsquo;re about quiet resolve and relentless service.</p>
<p dir="ltr">If this story moved you, we invite you to read more<a href="https://www.welovepolice.org/category/acts-of-heroism"> Acts of Heroism</a> stories of officers around the country. Learn about the mission behind We Love Police, or head to the <a href="https://welovepolice.org/stories">Stories page</a> to discover more uplifting police stories.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">References</h2>
<ul>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">WATCH: Hero cop rescued from Hurricane Helene flash flood, immediately helps injured man - <a href="https://www.foxnews.com/us/watch-hero-cop-rescued-hurricane-helene-flash-flood-immediately-helps-injured-man-what-we-do">Fox News</a> (by Stepheny Price)</p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><strong id="docs-internal-guid-02d71cf5-7fff-71d8-8e88-cd1e6d562f8a">Image Source - <a href="https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2025/03/1200/675/hero-cop-rescued-from-hurricane-helene-flood-waters.png?ve=1&amp;tl=1">Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security</a> (via Fox News)</strong></p>
</li>
</ul>

After Hurricane Helene flooding, a Tennessee trooper was rescued, then helped save an injured man. A true story of courage and duty.

Hero Trooper Rescued from Floodwaters, Then Saves Injured Man

<p dir="ltr">A powerful example of rapid police response and neighborly teamwork played out in Saratoga Springs, New York, when a 22-year-old horse named Sly fell through the ice on a local pond. Bodycam footage from the Saratoga Springs Police Department shows the dramatic rescue, where officers and neighbors worked together to pull the 1,300-pound quarter horse from the freezing water.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The emergency police response began when Officer Kyle Clinton arrived first on the scene, joining Sly&rsquo;s owner, Ali Ernst, who had tried to keep Sly&rsquo;s head above water. Clinton and others&mdash;including more officers, neighbors, and family, worked in unison, calling out, &ldquo;One, two three, pull!&rdquo; and &ldquo;C&rsquo;mon, baby. We got ya!&rdquo; as they struggled to free the horse.</p>
<p dir="ltr">"I was losing the battle to keep him above water alone," Ernst said. "I threw all the rope in the hole and just started pulling it back in sheer hopes that I caught a hind leg, and I did, and we all just started to pull."</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Crisis Management in Law Enforcement and Community</h2>
<p dir="ltr">The successful icy pond rescue was only possible through swift action and crisis management in law enforcement. The emergency response police didn&rsquo;t hesitate, embodying the best of crisis management police principles by coordinating with neighbors and responding quickly to the emergency.</p>
<p dir="ltr">A group of nine, including officers from the Saratoga Springs Police and local community members, worked together as an emergency response team police unit. Their swift police response ensured that Sly, who was hypothermic, was freed within minutes and soon able to stand on his own.</p>
<p dir="ltr">After the animal rescue police succeeded, Sly was taken to Rood &amp; Riddle Equine Hospital for recovery, where his owner works as a technician. Thanks to the animal rescue New York community, Sly made a full recovery and returned home just days later.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Why These Animal Rescue Stories Matter</h2>
<p dir="ltr">This story is a reminder that heroes wear many uniforms. Whether it&rsquo;s New York police, animal control, or caring neighbors, responding to emergencies with teamwork and heart can save lives&mdash;animal and human alike.</p>
<p dir="ltr">To discover more uplifting stories of police, explore our<a href="https://www.welovepolice.org/category/acts-of-heroism"> Acts of Heroism</a> page. For more about the values guiding first responders, visit our <a href="https://welovepolice.org/education">Education page</a>.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">References</h2>
<ul>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">New York police save horse from icy pond in dramatic rescue - <a href="https://www.foxnews.com/us/see-it-new-york-police-save-horse-icy-pond-dramatic-rescue">Fox News </a>(by Louis Casiano)</p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Image Source - Saratoga Springs Police via AP</p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Video Source - <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qOGilKvxOJE">WKYC Channel 3</a></p>
</li>
</ul>

A horse trapped in an icy New York pond is saved by police and neighbors, see how rapid emergency response made all the difference.

Police and Neighbors Rescue Horse From Icy Pond in New York

<h2 dir="ltr">Kindness Caught on Camera in Georgetown, KY</h2>
<p dir="ltr">Sometimes, the smallest gestures leave the biggest mark. That&rsquo;s exactly what happened in Georgetown, Kentucky, when a routine patrol turned into a moment that touched thousands. A 37-second video clip captured Georgetown PD Officer Rodney Johnson helping a woman in a wheelchair struggling to get home along Paris Pike.</p>
<p dir="ltr">He didn&rsquo;t know anyone was watching. But someone in the community recorded the moment, and this random act of kindness quickly turned into a viral police video shared widely across Facebook and local news.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">A Simple Act That Inspired Many</h2>
<p dir="ltr">&ldquo;It was just a normal routine patrol,&rdquo; Officer Johnson explained. &ldquo;I was driving on Paris Pike and I noticed traffic was backing.&rdquo;</p>
<p dir="ltr">The cause? A woman in a wheelchair navigating a busy street alone.</p>
<p dir="ltr">&ldquo;Without hesitation, Johnson parked his cruiser, turned on his lights and began wheeling her down the street,&rdquo; reported FOX 56.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Traffic paused as he gently pushed her to safety. Then he returned to his cruiser and continued his shift, never expecting the praise or attention that followed.</p>
<p dir="ltr">&ldquo;It was just instinct. I mean, that&rsquo;s what we&rsquo;re here for, to help people,&rdquo; Johnson said. &ldquo;And when I pulled over, I got behind her and just pushed her home. And unbeknownst to me, some lady was recording and I had no idea.&rdquo;</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Community Response: Uplifting a Police Story</h2>
<p dir="ltr">The footage was sent to the Georgetown KY Police Department, who proudly shared it on social media. The public&rsquo;s reaction was swift and heartfelt.</p>
<p dir="ltr">&ldquo;Officer Johnson&rsquo;s actions are a perfect example of what it means to go above and beyond,&rdquo; the department wrote. &ldquo;Thank you to the community member who captured this moment, and thank you to all our officers who show kindness and dedication every day.&rdquo;</p>
<p dir="ltr">The post was met with dozens of supportive comments:</p>
<p dir="ltr">&ldquo;God bless the people that believe in kindness.&rdquo;</p>
<p dir="ltr">&ldquo;This is awesome. We do have some of the most compassionate officers and community members.&rdquo;</p>
<p dir="ltr">This wasn&rsquo;t just an act of kindness&mdash;it was one of those<a href="https://www.welovepolice.org/category/acts-of-kindness"> everyday acts of kindness</a> that remind us who our officers truly are.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Humble Heroism Behind the Badge</h2>
<p dir="ltr">Johnson later reflected on the moment with humility and grace.</p>
<p dir="ltr">&ldquo;We&rsquo;re out here doing a job, you know, trying to help people as much as we can, and then you know, to have that much love and respect to come from the public saying that. It&rsquo;s very humbling,&rdquo; said Johnson.</p>
<p dir="ltr">&ldquo;That&rsquo;s what we do. We serve and protect the community. We help people that need to be helped and sometimes when people can&rsquo;t help themselves, we step in and we provide that help that they need.&rdquo;</p>
<p dir="ltr">He lives by the motto:</p>
<p dir="ltr">&ldquo;Do the right thing even when no one is watching.&rdquo;</p>
<p dir="ltr">That mindset turned this moment into a powerful<a href="https://www.welovepolice.org/category/inspirational-stories"> acts of kindness story</a>, reminding us how impactful simple acts of kindness can be when done with heart.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Why These Stories Matter</h2>
<p dir="ltr">Not all acts of kindness make the news. But this one&mdash;shared by a neighbor who simply wanted to spotlight the good&mdash;reminds us that<a href="https://www.welovepolice.org/category/community-involvement"> compassion still thrives in uniform</a>. Officer Johnson&rsquo;s action embodies what it means to be part of a community, not just to patrol it.</p>
<p dir="ltr">These deeds of kindness, these small acts of kindness shown by officers every day, deserve to be seen, shared, and celebrated.</p>
<p dir="ltr">If you or a loved one is a police officer, know that your work matters. And if you ever need someone to talk to, We Love Police is here with trusted support options and connection to chaplain services.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Want to See More?</h2>
<p dir="ltr">Visit our<a href="https://www.welovepolice.org/"> </a><a href="https://www.welovepolice.org/stories">Stories Page</a> to discover more stories of police courage and compassion. Have a story to share? <a href="https://www.welovepolice.org/contact">Contact us</a>, we&rsquo;d love to hear how officers are making a difference in your community.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">References</h2>
<ul>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><a href="https://fox56news.com/news/local/georgetown-police-officer-caught-in-a-random-act-of-kindness/">Georgetown police officer helps woman in wheelchair during patrol</a> - FOX 56 (by Dustin Massengill)</p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><a href="https://www.lex18.com/news/georgetown-police-officers-act-of-kindness-captured-on-video">Georgetown officer&rsquo;s good deed goes viral</a> - LEX 18</p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Image Source - FOX 56&nbsp;</p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Video Source -&nbsp; LEX 18</p>
</li>
</ul>

Acts of Kindness

A Georgetown KY police officer's act of kindness went viral after he helped a woman in a wheelchair. It’s a story worth watching and sharing.

Officer’s Kindness in Georgetown Goes Viral and Warms Hearts

<p dir="ltr">A man experiencing a mental health crisis on Seattle&rsquo;s Ship Canal Bridge was safely brought to help last Thursday, thanks to the calm response from the Seattle Police, their Hostage Negotiation Team, and the Washington State Patrol.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Officers arrived around 3:45 p.m. after reports came in of a man in distress. Several lanes on I-5 were shut down while officers worked to de-escalate the situation safely.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">An Hour of Patience, Compassion, and Listening</h2>
<p dir="ltr">Sergeant David Sullivan, a longtime member of the Seattle Police Department, stood near the edge of the bridge with the man, trying to build trust during the tense hour.</p>
<p dir="ltr">&ldquo;This is a very professional person; he is at the VP level in his organization,&rdquo; Sergeant Sullivan said. &ldquo;He&rsquo;s just suffering from a long-term behavioral health condition that he has hidden because of the stigma. It&rsquo;s just really sad.&rdquo;</p>
<p dir="ltr">As they talked, Sgt. Sullivan told the man about treatment options, including the new King County Crisis Center in Kirkland, which offers inpatient crisis stabilization services.</p>
<p dir="ltr">&ldquo;This model is the future,&rdquo; Sullivan said. &ldquo;It&rsquo;s a lot more respectful of behavioral conditions than sending someone to the ER. They are focused on behavioral health. This model has worked in other parts of the country.&rdquo;</p>
<p dir="ltr">Sgt. Sullivan, who has already referred two people to the center that week, remained focused on giving the man options and hope.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Safe Resolution, Warm Blanket, Real Connection</h2>
<p dir="ltr">Eventually, the man climbed back over the guardrail. At that point, Sergeant James Kim, who oversees SPD&rsquo;s Hostage Negotiation Team, stepped in.</p>
<p dir="ltr">&ldquo;After he climbed over [the guardrail], I gave him a blanket to get warm, and we just talked,&rdquo; Kim said. &ldquo;We talked about our kids; this was somebody I could talk to. It&rsquo;s hard.&rdquo;</p>
<p dir="ltr">Kim later added that everyone on the scene, from Washington State Patrol to Seattle Police and the Washington Department of Transportation, treated the man with compassion and care.</p>
<p dir="ltr">In an email to SPD, WSP Captain Ron Mead wrote:</p>
<p dir="ltr">&ldquo;It goes without saying that a life no doubt was saved tonight by the great work of everyone involved, and my particular thanks to Trooper Jaramillo and SPD Sgt. Sullivan and Kim. Your efforts made a difference, and I&rsquo;m hopeful that [the man in crisis] gets the help he desperately needs. The public we all serve are better because of the great partnerships between the WSP and SPD leading to great outcomes like this and exceptional public servants like each of you!&rdquo;</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">A Career Defined by Service</h2>
<p dir="ltr">Though Sgt. Sullivan is humble about his actions, his dedication has not gone unnoticed. He will receive the Medal of Honor from the Seattle Police Foundation later this month.</p>
<p dir="ltr">That recognition follows his work in November 2024, when he chased down and apprehended a man suspected of stabbing 10 people in Seattle&rsquo;s Chinatown-International District over two days. His quick action in that case may have prevented further harm and was widely praised.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Real People Behind the Uniform</h2>
<p dir="ltr">This recent rescue on the Ship Canal Bridge wasn&rsquo;t about tactics or force, it was about patience, trust, and knowing when to simply listen. It&rsquo;s the kind of outcome that shows what police can do when they&rsquo;re trained and supported in responding to mental health situations with care.</p>
<p dir="ltr">If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. Call 988 to reach the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: 24/7, free, and confidential.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">References</h2>
<ul>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><a href="https://www.kiro7.com/unavailable-location/">https://www.kiro7.com/</a></p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><a href="https://www.yahoo.com/news/police-rescue-man-crisis-ship-201609700.html?guccounter=1&amp;guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbS8&amp;guce_referrer_sig=AQAAAM4SFasBzxksXNPgO-W8jQJ60J6VzuCFX7qwCR_qH_SNh3-fXA12Tag5gacwcuM93iPnJxFy7NwcTqWY1cQ_adSdReuvL2P9_wMsbsgnu91i5K4lOz_xrL9MIf4NQhxDIFf3Ek-cwT33RpJbHxrSbhI9nX51ECKpiIxsdNCZjucv">https://www.yahoo.com/news/police-rescue-man-crisis-ship-201609700.html?guccounter=1&amp;guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbS8&amp;guce_referrer_sig=AQAAAM4SFasBzxksXNPgO-W8jQJ60J6VzuCFX7qwCR_qH_SNh3-fXA12Tag5gacwcuM93iPnJxFy7NwcTqWY1cQ_adSdReuvL2P9_wMsbsgnu91i5K4lOz_xrL9MIf4NQhxDIFf3Ek-cwT33RpJbHxrSbhI9nX51ECKpiIxsdNCZjucv</a>&nbsp;</p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><a href="https://spdblotter.seattle.gov/2025/03/14/multi-agency-effort-rescues-man-from-ship-canal-bridge-thursday/">https://spdblotter.seattle.gov/2025/03/14/multi-agency-effort-rescues-man-from-ship-canal-bridge-thursday/</a></p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><a href="https://www.bigcountrynewsconnection.com/local/seattle-police-and-washington-state-patrol-talk-man-down-from-ship-canal-bridge/article_57e9d436-0125-11f0-8653-ef425bcd077d.html">https://www.bigcountrynewsconnection.com/local/seattle-police-and-washington-state-patrol-talk-man-down-from-ship-canal-bridge/article_57e9d436-0125-11f0-8653-ef425bcd077d.html</a></p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><strong id="docs-internal-guid-05374cf8-7fff-af30-553c-13199b503782">Image Source:&nbsp;<a href="https://spdblotter.seattle.gov/2025/03/14/multi-agency-effort-rescues-man-from-ship-canal-bridge-thursday/">https://spdblotter.seattle.gov/2025/03/14/multi-agency-effort-rescues-man-from-ship-canal-bridge-thursday/</a></strong></p>
</li>
</ul>

A peaceful outcome on the Ship Canal Bridge, led by calm officers and a multi-agency response from SPD and WSP.

Seattle Police Help Rescue Man in Crisis on I-5 Bridge

<p dir="ltr">An 86-year-old man, reported missing from his home in Plainville, Massachusetts, was found safe Thursday night after a quick and coordinated search and rescue operation. The Plainville Police Department worked with several local and regional partners to find the man before the cold weather became dangerous.</p>
<p dir="ltr">He had last been seen around 7:00 p.m., and was reported missing at 8:20 p.m. With temperatures around 36 degrees and concern for his safety growing, officers didn&rsquo;t hesitate.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Search Teams, Drones, and K-9 Units Deployed</h2>
<p dir="ltr">Police quickly requested help from the Metropolitan Law Enforcement Council (METRO-LEC), a network of 46 departments that supports cities and towns like Plainville MA in situations like this. Multiple teams were sent in, including:</p>
<ul>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Drone units for aerial surveillance</p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">K-9 teams to help on the ground</p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">A search and rescue crew</p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Tactical bicycle officers and investigative units</p>
</li>
</ul>
<p dir="ltr">The Massachusetts State Police Department responded as well, including the MSP Air Wing. The Plainville Fire Department was also on scene to provide medical support.</p>
<p dir="ltr">This joint effort shows how law enforcement agencies working together can move fast and effectively during emergencies.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Missing Man Located in 17 Minutes</h2>
<p dir="ltr">Three drones launched and began scanning over two miles of wooded terrain near power lines in Plainville, Massachusetts. At 9:47 p.m., just 17 minutes after drone deployment, the missing old man was found alive in the woods.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Search-and-rescue teams and paramedics reached him quickly and gave a medical evaluation before taking him to Sturdy Memorial Hospital in Attleboro, where he was reported to be in stable condition.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Chief Commends Fast and Focused Response</h2>
<p dir="ltr">In a statement after the operation, Plainville Police Chief James Floyd said:</p>
<p dir="ltr">&ldquo;Tonight&rsquo;s successful rescue is a testament to the power of collaboration, advanced technology, and the unwavering dedication of our law enforcement and emergency response teams. The ability to deploy specialized units so quickly made all the difference in reuniting this individual with his loved ones. We sincerely thank the public for their support and commend all personnel involved for a job well done.&rdquo;</p>
<p dir="ltr">This case joins the many examples of missing persons who were found thanks to organized, timely law enforcement response.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Quiet but Life-Saving Police Work</h2>
<p dir="ltr">The Plainville Police Department, Massachusetts State Police Dept, METRO-LEC, and Plainville Fire Department showed how vital inter-agency teamwork is. It&rsquo;s not every day that stories about missing persons who were found alive make the headlines, but when they do, they remind us of the quiet, important work happening behind the scenes.</p>
<p dir="ltr">This rescue didn&rsquo;t just depend on technology, it relied on trained officers, solid communication, and departments working side-by-side. It&rsquo;s one of those moments that highlights what&rsquo;s possible when law enforcement agencies work together with a clear goal.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">References</h2>
<ul>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><a href="https://turnto10.com/news/local/plainville-police-rescue-an-86-year-old-man-reported-missing">Plainville police rescue an 86-year-old man reported missing</a> - WJAR (by NBC 10 News)</p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><a href="https://www.police1.com/drones/drones-aid-in-rescue-of-86-year-old-man-locating-him-in-17-minutes">Drones aid in rescue of 86-year-old man, locating him in 17 minutes</a> - Police1 (by Heather Morrison)</p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><a href="https://www.newportdispatch.com/2025/03/14/plainville-police-rescue-missing-86-year-old-man-in-woods/">Plainville police rescue missing 86-year-old man in woods</a> - Newport Dispatch (by Daniel Duric)</p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><a href="https://hoodline.com/2025/03/missing-86-year-old-massachusetts-man-rescued-by-drone-technology-in-17-minutes/">Missing 86-Year-Old Massachusetts Man Rescued by Drone Technology in 17 Minutes</a> - Hoodline (by Mike Chen)</p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
<p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><strong id="docs-internal-guid-861f66cf-7fff-5617-b696-6a8633a6e439"><a href="https://lexipol.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/2c7987a/2147483647/strip/true/crop/1024x577+0+0/resize/1000x563!/format/webp/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fk1-prod-lexipol.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Fda%2F4f%2Fdeeab9084a20aa436b81aff94a94%2F476063980-1069513565218678-2757614279964809862-n.jpg">Image source</a> </strong>- Police1</p>
</li>
</ul>

Inspirational Stories

Fast response and drone tech helped Plainville MA police locate a missing old man found in the woods on a cold night.

Police Rescue Missing Elderly Man Using Drone in Plainville

<p id="NWFHV2Z5H5DRVFP3Z5ANDOXOCE" class="article__paragraph article__paragraph--left">TARRANT, Alabama - Helen Johnson stared in amazement at the piles of food accumulating in her small Tarrant apartment on Wednesday.</p>
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<p id="WQHKN5GLVBBSRBS3L34H6FES3Y" class="article__paragraph article__paragraph--left">"The last time I saw my house this full, I was 12-years-old and staying with my grandmother,'' said the 47-year-old mother and grandmother. "I've been crying all day."</p>
<p class="article__paragraph article__paragraph--left">On Wednesday, Tarrant police delivered two truckloads of groceries to the woman, who on Saturday was&nbsp;<a href="http://www.al.com/news/birmingham/index.ssf/2014/12/im_not_a_good_thief_says_woman.html">caught stealing five eggs from the nearby Dollar General</a>. Instead of arresting Johnson, Tarrant Police Officer William Stacy bought her a carton of eggs and sent her home with the promise to never shoplift again.</p>
<p id="7IO4EMAWJFFM3KXTO5YUCVPN2I" class="article__paragraph article__paragraph--left">That in itself, Johnson said, was a blessing. But those blessings now seem to have taken on a life of their own. Tarrant police said they've received calls from across the United States and world since hearing of Johnson's plight. People have offered food, money and clothing.</p>
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<p id="BSONJ5HXTBA6JHY5NJ5UITMQ44" class="article__paragraph article__paragraph--left">It's been so overwhelming, said Tarrant Police Chief Dennis Reno, he had to bring in a second police dispatcher to handle the volume of calls. Police officials today also set up a fund at People's First Federal Credit Union on Ford Avenue in Tarrant to benefit the Johnson family.</p>
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<p id="ZW7Z2EZRVVEUZMZR6G4DPGMTNQ" class="article__paragraph article__paragraph--left">"It's growing and growing and growing,'' Reno said. " A guy called me from New York and just broke down. He said for two months he's been angry with police, and he said this has totally changed his mind."</p>
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<p id="POTZULHNXNDTBPRCPXCAOXZLUM" class="article__paragraph article__paragraph--left">A food bank from Memphis is set to arrive in Tarrant this evening. "This woman's getting plenty of food,'' the chief said. "She shouldn't be hungry for a while."</p>
<p id="QENO564ECVHCDPWGFHHLHKW2P4" class="article__paragraph article__paragraph--left">What a difference a week makes. Johnson's two daughters, a niece and two grandchildren, ages 1 and 3, live with her in their Tarrant home. The kids' mother gets a welfare check - $120 a month - but that check was lost in the mail. Johnson herself gets a disability check, which is set to come this week.</p>
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<p id="A3AXQOUGJRHD3L4RNY4DD3OR6E" class="article__paragraph article__paragraph--left">By Saturday, the family had gone two days without food. Johnson went to Dollar General on Pinson Valley Parkway with $1.25 and thought that would be enough to buy a carton of eggs. When she realized she was 50 cents plus tax short, she stuffed five eggs in her pocket out of desperation.</p>
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<p id="EQHBUYDK3FE2HNYPNE52BIASBE" class="article__paragraph article__paragraph--left">She didn't get far.&nbsp; "Of course when I put them in my jacket pocket they broke,'' Johnson said in an earlier interview. "I'm not a good thief at all."</p>
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<p id="FYZ2HLUNWFFNLJHFILA7USZHEU" class="article__paragraph article__paragraph--left">A store worker stopped Johnson and asked her if she had taken the eggs. She said she did, and they said they had already called the police.</p>
<p id="YM5JQREFZFASFG2AWADQ4NWCPE" class="article__paragraph article__paragraph--left">By the time she got to the door, Tarrant police Officer William Stacy was there, and told her to stay put. The officer said he'd already talked to Dollar General officials and they said they weren't going to press charges.</p>
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<p id="P6YTQGY53JD55CEBBPQWLTRN5A" class="article__paragraph article__paragraph--left">Johnson didn't know that, and said she was waiting for him to bring out the handcuffs. Instead, he went into the store and&nbsp;<a href="http://www.al.com/news/birmingham/index.ssf/2014/12/police_officer_buys_eggs_for_w.html#incart_river">came back out with a carton of eggs</a>. "She started crying, she got very emotional and was very apologetic,'' Stacy said. "She tried to give me the money she had on her, $1.25."</p>
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<p id="GPNUBPNSOZC4DI3PLQCAH7V3HA" class="article__paragraph article__paragraph--left">Johnson said she was stunned. "I was like, 'Oh my God, thank you Jesus for this man,''' she said. "He is my hero."</p>
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<p id="7OMU2UDWHZE77OOBRBZ57UKLCQ" class="article__paragraph article__paragraph--left">Stacy said he can remember times growing up when his mother had trouble finding ways to feed him and his sister. He had been on a call to Johnson's house once before, and had gotten a glimpse of the living conditions. The furnishings are sparse, and the family sleeps on mattresses on the floor.</p>
<p id="TPUPJ4QUDVECNJ5FWG3CWDO6X4" class="article__paragraph article__paragraph--left">The story she told me Saturday matched up with what I had seen when I was there,'' he said. "I felt like it was the right thing to do. I didn't want to pass judgment on her."</p>
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<p id="63NO7IQQXJHXRMIH5ME2Q45VX4" class="article__paragraph article__paragraph--left">She asked how she could repay him, and he told her to not shoplift again. "Sometimes the best route is to not arrest,'' Stacy said. "I hope she won't do it again. I pray she doesn't, and I don't think she will."</p>
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<p id="724HQXW2LFBCXANG275NMC476Y" class="article__paragraph article__paragraph--left">Johnson asked Stacy if she could hug him, and he said yes. Unbeknownst to both of them, a man named Robert "Dollar" Tripp filmed the scene on his cell phone and later posted it on his Facebook with the hashtag "feelgoodstoryoftheday."</p>
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<p id="R4UL63ED6BBUBKVKV3XP2PKEPM" class="article__paragraph article__paragraph--left">The story went viral. On Tuesday, Tarrant police showed up at her home. "I was shook and so scared," she said. "I thought it was about the eggs. My grandbaby said, 'Are you going to jail?' and I said I hoped not."</p>
<p id="QQMMMNY5CZAHBG5VJOX6PLBQV4" class="article__paragraph article__paragraph--left">Instead, Tarrant police took Johnson to headquarters, where they signed her up for the annual Tarrant Toy Drive, and also are helping to coordinate the offers of food and clothing also pouring in, said Tarrant police Sgt. Larry Rice.</p>
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<p id="6SLEQLUFCBCRPONHBXGL4MIXTI" class="article__paragraph article__paragraph--left">On Wednesday, Stacy and Officer Jay Jenkins took two loads of food to Johnson's apartment. She couldn't stop crying, and she couldn't stop hugging Stacy. "I just busted out and started hollering,'' Johnson said of all the food delivered to her home. "I was yelling so loud. I would have been a good cheerleader."</p>
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<p id="MZWRTA7L3RHQ7JCPGDA5BRWUEQ" class="article__paragraph article__paragraph--left">With help from a nearby church, Johnson spent much of Wednesday reorganizing her kitchen cabinets to make room for all the food. The family, who by Tuesday was down to one slice of bread, had their pick of what to eat.</p>
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<p id="TVYH2IYA3BHBJO75FTIO7OK7YM" class="article__paragraph article__paragraph--left">So what did they eat? "Cereal,'' she said. "That's our favorite."</p>
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<p id="ZUZWYLI6RZAHRGXTOGIXU6G5QM" class="article__paragraph article__paragraph--left">Her grandchildren were also happy to see the officers at their apartment. "You back?" said 3-year-old Tamarose, as she grabbed various cans of food to show the family.</p>
<p id="RL55BRSNXJHATKXST4JS7X63CQ" class="article__paragraph article__paragraph--left">Asked what she would do if someone else in need asked her for a slice of bread, she said, "I would give them the whole loaf. And then I would give them Officer Stacy's number."</p>
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<p id="U7UTPZWOTBFELL2J7MISL3EWRI" class="article__paragraph article__paragraph--left">Johnson said her life is forever changed because of the actions of Stacy and the Tarrant Police Department. "My heart,'' she said, "is wide open right now."</p>
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<p id="UNBE74G4FNGKFOSKT7G35GVIR4" class="article__paragraph article__paragraph--left">Anyone who wants to make a donation to Johnson can do so at People's First Federal Credit Union. Checks should be made payable to the Tarrant Police Charity Fund c/o the Johnson Family. Checks can be mailed to the bank at 1140 Ford Avenue, Tarrant, Alabama 35217.</p>
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