Police Give Gift Cards for Safe Prosper Drivers

Prosper police are handing out holiday cheer instead of tickets this week. That is, if officers catch a person in the act of safe driving.

“It’s a feel good program for us all,” said Assistant Chief Gary McHone.

“Any opportunity we get to have a positive interaction with the community, we want to take it,” McHone said.

The program, in its third year, arms officers with $10 gift cards and tasks them with rewarding people wearing their seat belt, showing current registration or just being cautious.

This year, they’re handing out 39 cards. The money comes from a private collection fund, not general tax dollars.

“It makes me feel good to give back to the community I serve,” said Officer Kevin McGee.

Drivers stopped show a range of emotions. For John Williams, he said he was “surprised” when McGee approached him in the CVS parking lot.

“I could not feel more proud to have them representing us,” Williams said.

“It’s not the gift, it’s the thought that comes behind it,” added Frank Slaughter, who was also stopped by McGee.

McHone emphasizes that his officers are not pulling any driver over with flashing lights for this program. Instead, they’re approaching willing people at areas like parking lots and schools.

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