Video: Columbus Police Department Gives Gift Cards to Motorists

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COLUMBUS, Miss. (WCBI) – When you see flashing lights from a police car behind you, you usually think you’re about to get a ticket. On Tuesday, some folks in Columbus were stopped by police but they were in for a surprise. The Columbus Police Department is following a national trend by playing secret Santa to motorists this Christmas season.

“I was a little nervous wondering what I’d done wrong,” says Ashley Ray, who was the first person to received gift card from police.

Ashley Ray had no idea that she’d been chosen by the Columbus Police Department to receive a $50 gift card. They pulled her over in the Walmart parking lot as she was headed inside to do last minute shopping.

“I was so surprised! It was so nice to see that the community was thinking of others. I think what I’ll do is pay it forward as well,” says Ray.

Ray was not alone. Tierra Malone says she too was caught off guard when she received her gift card.

“I was shocked, I was thinking they’re pulling us over but I was like “Why? Because all we were doing is dropping somebody at the door at work,” says Malone.’

Malone says the gift card is a blessing and she already knows how she’s going to use it.

“Shop. Basically for my kids before we do anything,” says Malone.

The officers playing secret Santa this Christmas season say it’s simply a great way to connect with the people they serve.

“We do care about everybody and we’re just trying to bridge the gap between the police and the community and show them that we’re looking out for them,” says Officer Raymond Hackler, with the Columbus Police Department.

The Police Department handed out $1,000 in gift cards. The gift cards were sponsored by the Columbus Police Department and local businesses.