Bolingbrook police host annual ‘Shop with a Cop’
By Brian Stanley Bstanley@stmedianetwork.com December 23, 2012 8:06PM
Sgt. Rich Hilliard and Naomy Ramierez select a Barbie doll during the Bolingbrook Police Department's annual "Shop with A Cop" event Tuesday at Meijer. | Supplied photo
Updated: January 25, 2013 6:11AM
BOLINGBROOK — Police hosted the 14th annual “Shop with a Cop” Tuesday at Meijer.
Local schools provided a list of over 100 students who received a $50 gift card, wrapping paper and snacks.
“The program enables our officers to meet and interact with so many children in a positive atmosphere. It is exemplified by the unselfishness the students bring, as many buy gifts for other family members even though they might not get any gifts themsleves this season,” Lt. Mike Rompa said.
Rompa felt officers sharing a postive experience with children enables better communication with them later in life.
“Although this seems simple to most, it is significant to some,” he said.
Naomy Ramierez told her new friend, Sgt. Rich Hilliard, being invited to shop with him made her know Santa Claus is real. But except for a Barbie doll she really wanted, Naomy used her card to buy presents for her family.
At the register “the cashier started crying and told Rich ‘This is what Christmas is all about,’” Rompa said.
Hilliard was also touched and said Naomy reminded him of his own family.
“When they were done wrapping, Naomy hugged Rich and would not let go,” Rompa said.
