Police Officer Impresses Child with Act of Kindness

An act of kindness by a Lake Wales police officer didn't go unnoticed by a little girl whose family recently was involved in a car crash. The child named Abby took the time to create a special thank-you card and to visit the police department to thank Officer Edgar Claros in person.

At the July 16 city commission meeting Lake Wales Mayor Eugene Fultz read a commendation letter from Police Chief Chris Velasquez, which detailed the recent incident.

"What stands out is the impact you made on this child and her family due to the way you handled yourself," Velasquez wrote to Claros. "Although you ultimately issued the driver a citation, you also assisted them by changing their tire as well as interacting with Abby.

"As a result, you turned a stressful experience into a positive encounter while building relationships with our community."

Fultz shared the letter and Abby's hand-drawn card, on which she drew a "friendship badge" for Officer Claros.

"Dear police. Thank you for changing our tire. That was very nice. You really didn't have to do that. Thank you. Love, Abby (Abigail)," her card said. "You earned this badge."

Velasquez wrote the commendation to personally thank Claros for doing such a fine job.

"This is a perfect example of your dedication to service and helping others," Velasquez wrote. "It is also an example of your character. I am proud to have you on our team and genuinely appreciate the work you do each and every day. I commend your actions and encourage you to keep up the great work as it sets an example for all to follow."