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Police Officer Buys Groceries For Family After Finding Young Boy Alone In Parking Lot

June 12, 2019

A police officer in Austin, Texas, went above and beyond the call of duty after talking with a young boy who was alone in a parking lot.

Officer James Riley / Credit: Austin Police Department

Last week, Officer James Riley was on patrol in Central West Austin when a citizen flagged him down and alerted him to a young boy who was walking alone in a parking lot.

Officer Riley approached the child and found out that he walked to the corner store alone and was getting snacks for a younger sibling. Concerned for the child's safety, Officer Riley gave him a ride home.

Once inside the residence, he learned that the family was going through difficult financial times. Officer Riley talked to the kids about safety and cautioned them not to leave the residence without an adult.

He then took it upon himself to go to the grocery store and bought a basket full of groceries and snacks that the boys would be able to fix without turning on the gas stove. He also got bought a few items that a parent would be able to cook for them.

The Austin Police Department shared the story and photos on their Facebook page.

"He showed true heart with this act of kindness and is just one example of how our officers work to make Austin a safe community," the department wrote on Facebook.

Many residents of the community commented on the post to commend the officer for his kind act.

"Thank you for being such a standup member of our community," Brenda said. "Compassion is a beautiful gift to give. I'm sure you made a wonderful impression on those kids."

"The family will always remember your kindness. Thank you!" Manuel commented.