Cops shop to spread Christmas cheer

Officers with the Apex Police Department expanded their job description Saturday to include shopping companion for 20 local children.

They are Santa’s helpers in uniform, making the holiday season bright for families that can use a little help.

“It's a predictable time every year when we get to do something that connects us with people on a personal level and enables people to see us in a little different light than sometimes they do,” Police Chief Jack K. Lewis said.

“It also re-enforces how blessed we are.”

The children get picked up in a limousine, shop for gifts and have lunch with the officers.

Emmanuel McClean, 9, picked out a guitar and a hat at the Super Target the Beaver Creek shopping center.

The kids return the blessing with hugs and thanks to let the officers know just how much they appreciate their goodwill and the sound of the cash register ringing up their Christmas gifts.

“I think it was a very nice thing to do. I think all of them are very nice people,” Joshua Mickens said.

The officers enjoy the shopping trip almost as much as the kids. Sgt. Sean Pearson said, “I can't wait for Christmas. I can't wait until next year to do this again.”