A Maryland police officer helped out a mother accused of stealing diapers for her young son by purchasing them for her and the boy.
Laurel Police Department Officer Bennett Johns arrived at the local Giant store after receiving reports of a shoplifter stealing $15 worth of diapers from the store over the weekend, reported Fox 5 DC Monday.
Johns said when he showed up, the shoplifter turned out to be a mom trying to get diapers for her two-year-old son. He listened to her story and decided to help her out by buying the diapers for her.
“This mother was going out of her way and doing everything she can to provide for her kid and I can respect that,” Johns told Fox 5 DC. “I can sympathize with that as well so that is why I felt compelled to help the mother in purchasing the diapers for the kid.”
He also related to the son because he was raised by a single mother.
“I see [the toddler] and I see myself growing up with a single mother and I want him to have a better life too,” Johns explained.
He did end up writing the mother a citation for theft and she will have to appear before court for her misdemeanor charge.
Laurel Police Chief Richard McLaughlin praised her officer for stepping up and helping out the mother.
“I’m very proud of my officers,” said McLaughlin. “All of my officers and particularly this one. I think it speaks volumes that they are doing the right thing for the right reason when nobody is watching.”
A Kansas police officer also helped out a homeless mother of six who was caught stealing diapers two years ago in a Walmart. Officer Mark Engravalle issued the mother a theft citation, but bought her children shoes, diapers, wipes and other necessities.
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