Spreading Holiday Cheer: SoCal Police Hand Out Starbucks Gift Cards Instead of Tickets
Drivers who were pulled over for minor violations were pleasantly surprised by the gifts, according to the Fullerton police.
In the last two weeks, officers from the Fullerton Police Department had a delightful surprise for drivers stopped for minor infractions.
“The initiative has been exceptionally successful,” department spokesperson Kristy Wells shared with The Epoch Times. “While some individuals were initially confused, they ultimately left with smiles and sincere expressions of gratitude.”
Fullerton is located approximately 25 miles southeast of Los Angeles in Orange County.
Some drivers confided in officers about the difficulties they were facing, with interactions providing “a ray of positivity to their day,” according to Wells.
The program wrapped up on December 24 after the two-week effort.
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“The officers took great joy in witnessing the positive reactions from those they helped, serving as a powerful reminder of the influence kindness can have in our everyday lives,” said Wells.
In total, officers distributed 150 gift cards, which were generously provided by the Fullerton Police and Community Foundation, a nonprofit organization that supports police initiatives.
“In the spirit of the holidays, while I am stopping people, my directive is to give out Starbucks gift cards,” the officer mentioned to her.
He then handed her the gift card, leaving her momentarily speechless.
“Awesome!” she exclaimed.
The police station in Fullerton, Calif., on Aug. 20, 2011. Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images
Another driver was pulled over for an expired registration.
“In the spirit of the holidays, I want to thank you for being a loyal resident of this city,” the officer expressed to the driver.
The driver responded, “I love coffee!”
One recipient became emotional and shook the officer’s hand after receiving the card.
On Monday night, a Fullerton resident contacted the police department after watching the social media video.
Moved by the initiative, she donated ten $10 Target gift cards to further encourage “positive interactions with those traveling through Fullerton,” according to Wells.
