Manatee Detective Shows Compassion, Buys Ice Cream For Family

BRADENTON, FL — Detective Joel Taylor of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office could have written multiple citations for a family he encountered during a recent traffic stop.

Instead, the officer demonstrated compassion and gave the family $20 to buy ice cream for the children.

Taylor was named deputy of the month after performing that simple act of kindness for the family in need.

"Detective Joel Taylor recently conducted a traffic stop due to a vehicle not having an assigned tag," explained the Manatee County Sheriff's Office. "During the traffic stop, the driver explained that his family was having financial difficulties and they were saving up to get the tag."

Rather than give the driver multiple citations, Taylor instead gave them a warning — and $20 out of his own pocket — to buy the children ice cream.

"They didn’t have money to do much with their children and were on their way to the UTC Mall, as it was inside and free for the children to play there," the sheriff's office explained.

Another relative drove the family to the mall.

"The family was very thankful and appreciative of his kindness and generosity," said the sheriff's office. "He saw the family was struggling and just trying to make the best of what they had for their children."

The officer decided to let the family enjoy the day with their children.

"For his kindness, Detective Joel Taylor is awarded deputy of the month for September," the sheriff's office added.