A woman who called a police officer in Colorado Springs on Christmas morning didn’t need the kind of help he was used to providing — there was no accident, no crime and no life hanging in the balance.
Emergency, though, yes.
The woman said her 11-year-old nephew wasn’t getting any presents for Christmas because the boy’s family was struggling and couldn’t afford a gift.
The officer, Barry Rizk, contacted a colleague, Officer Bob Eberhardt, and together they were able to quickly find a new Nintendo Wii game console and several games.
The officers wrapped the gifts and, along with El Paso County sheriff’s deputies, delivered the package to the boy’s home outside of the city limits.
“Once at the house, the officers and deputies noticed the inside was barren,” police said. “No decorations, tree or presents were observed.”
The gifts left the boy ecstatic, his mother in tears and his father grateful.
“The officers reported it was one of the most satisfying calls they have ever experienced,” police said.
Authorities say they, out of respect, are declining to identify the family.
Jesse Paul: 303-954-1733, jpaul@denverpost.com or
