LEXINGTON, Ky. (LEX 18)–A Lexington mom says that an exchange between her children and local officers has changed her views on law enforcement.
It started when 11-year-old Devontay Poindexter was playing basketball outside with some other kids in the neighborhood, including his older brother and sister.
During their game Tuesday, he got a big surprise when a Lexington Police Officer rolled up. He said that he and his friends rushed to the sidewalk, afraid they would be in trouble for playing basketball in the street. Instead, the officer asked if he could play ball with them.
“It was amazing because I’ve never played with the police before,” said Devontay.
Devontay’s mom Delisha told LEX 18 that it was amazing to see. She said that wasn’t the only surprise that day though. The officer left and came back later with a brand new basketball hoop.
“For that to happen yesterday, it made me change my view of how I look at the police, you know, all police aren’t bad,” said Delisha.
Delisha said that both she and her son say that the gesture makes them feel differently about officers.
“Normally I’m scared of the police, like nervous and scared of them and then now, I have a whole different point of view of it,” said Devontay.
Delisha said it also helps her feel a bit safer in her neighborhood.
Devontay told LEX 18 that the police officers plan to help them put together the hoop as well.
The officers in the photo are Officer Zachary Strong and Officer Andrew Miller, according to a Spokeswoman for the police department.
In a statement, the officers said they wanted to make a connection with the kids.
“Many times in the areas we patrol, the kids don’t always get to experience the police in a positive setting,” Strong said.
“Hopefully a small gesture like this can help bridge the gap between the police and the community,” he said.
The pair also wanted to encourage the kids to keep playing outside, Miller said.
“When I saw these young kids being active and involved in a positive way, it took me back to my childhood,” he said. “We immediately thought to encourage this behavior and what better way than to give back.”
