Family Fun
Mom compelled to share officers reaction towards little boy following car accident
She doesn't think anyone else even noticed what the officer did at the scene.
Laura Shallcross
10.26.20

After the terrible incident involving a police officer and George Floyd earlier this year, the entire police force has rightfully been subjected to heavy scrutiny.

The police play such a large role in everyday society that it’s vital the officers who represent our country are worthy of doing so.

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But it’s worth remembering that while highlighting the bad eggs is important, there are thousands of officers who have only ever done good, and only have the best intentions for the public.

One woman, Janet Balestriero, shared a photo that should restore your faith in police as a whole.

After a three-car accident in Coral Springs, this week, a young boy sat on the side of the road while the adults dealt with the situation.

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A police officer was seen sat next to the little boy, comforting him by engaging him in conversation.

According to Janet, the pair were discussing the little boy’s favorite Disney character – a winning distraction!

After taking the photo, Janet decided to share it on Coral Springs Police Department’s Facebook page.

She wrote:

“Car Accidents can be scary… especially when it’s your first.

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“Driving home today we were involved in a 3 car accident. Coral Springs Fire Department and Coral Springs Police where [sic] on the scene in minutes. There were some minor injuries that were tended to.

“As we sat waiting for the paperwork to be completed and the tow trucks to arrive, I hear an officer say let’s sit over on the curb. He was talking to this little boy that was upset at seeing his car all banged up.”

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According to Janet, the officer had a kind, gentle voice, and held the little boy’s hand reassuringly as they walked to the curb. Once they had sat down, they played with the little boy’s fire truck and talked Disney.

Janet continued:

“I found myself smiling at that scene wondering if anyone else even noticed this Officer’s kindness.

“Just wanted to say thank all the Officers and Fire Rescue that showed up today. It’s good to know you are there. ❤️🚓❤️🚒❤️”

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Janet’s picture has been liked more than 1k times, and has more than 100 comments and nearly 600 shares.

The cop in the picture was identified as Officer Bryan Dougherty, who has been a familiar face in the department since 2016.

Coral Springs Police shared Janet’s post, writing:

“Yesterday we received a message from Janet B. about an interaction between one of our smallest residents and an officer.

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“It warms our hearts when our residents share the good work our family is doing out in the field. We are so grateful to see it through your eyes and be able to recognize those that are caught showing their best during someone else’s time of need.

“Thank you, Janet, for sharing this with our department. We are so very appreciative of all the love and support from you and our community. 🙏”

Janet wanted people to see the compassionate side of the police, showing that they shouldn’t all be tarnished with the same brush.

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She said that what she witnessed was an act of kindness, even if the officer was just doing his job.

She added:

“I try to find a little kindness every day in a world that’s gone crazy.”

You can view Janet’s viral Facebook post here.

Please SHARE this with your friends and family.

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