Two police officers from the Sanford Police Department recently donated boxes of toys to a local church. The church called Riverwalk Church reportedly had a recent incident of Christmas gifts theft in its congregation.
Spreading Holiday Cheer
According to the police department's Facebook post, the two officers worked with their local Walmart store to give the toys. Officers Timothy Corey and Shane Stewart partnered with the retail giant to replenish the stolen goods.
In a report with Click Orlando, Stewart said he got the idea because he was a "big Christmas person." He explained that he always had the holiday spirit and wanted to help out.
The officer stressed that it is important for someone to do the right thing, especially during the holidays. He added that the church is only trying to help families in need.
Helping Community
Stewart stressed that he did not join the police force to bring criminals to jail.
He explained that he became a police officer because he wanted to help people in need. The officer said that it felt amazing to give back to the community. He explained that the city had done so much for him in the past.
George Stephens, the church's pastor, said he was grateful for the two officers who extended their help.
He added that the church also plans to donate 1,000 boxes this year. He called Corey and Stewart "servants of the community."
Stephens added that the generosity and kindness of the police force were something many people do not see.
The pastor said that many citizens always see the bad in their police department. He clarified that many of their police officers are good people and work hard to serve the community.
Suspect Arrested
According to the news article, the police department responded to the initial theft on Saturday, Nov. 6.
A staff member of the church reported that she saw a volunteer leaving the building with two bags filled with toys.
The witness said that she observed a 50-year-old man named Eric Hatcher filling up the toys into large bags and larger boxes. The police added that Hatcher was supposed to place the children's toys in boxes to fill his required community service hours.
Hatcher allegedly told the employee that he needed the toys for his children.
When officers confronted the 50-year-old, he sped out of the parking lot in his car.
The report said that the suspect exited south on Holly Avenue. He took with him over $500 worth of toys.
The Facebook post read that officers managed to arrest the 50-year-old a day after the theft occurred.
Hatcher reportedly gave many reasons why he stole the donated toys from the church.
Fang-tastic Fest Event
Meanwhile, the Sanford Police Department recently donated 200 children's books during the Fang-tastic Fest event.
The event took place on Sunday, Oct. 31, and was hosted by the city of Sanford. The post said its Community Relations Unit facilitated the donation of the books.
According to the Facebook post, the city government invited families to attend the event. The gathering boasted costume contests, carnival games, and treats.
The city also thanked its sponsors for helping them during the event.
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