Atlanta police officer Sebastian Kertchaval made 12-year-old Amir’s Christmas unforgettable by gifting him a PlayStation 5. This special moment wasn’t just about the holiday season but about recognizing the remarkable changes Amir had made in his behavior over the past few months.
The story begins during a tense summer day when Officer Kertchaval responded to a 911 call about an “unruly child.” When he arrived, he found Amir in a difficult situation. Rather than escalating the conflict, Kertchaval took the time to connect with the young boy. His calm demeanor and ability to de-escalate the situation left a lasting impression on Amir and his family.
Since that day, Amir’s grandmother has kept Officer Kertchaval updated on her grandson’s progress. She reported significant improvements in Amir’s behavior, which prompted the officer to think of a special way to reward him. As Christmas approached, Kertchaval decided that a PlayStation 5 would be the perfect gift.
“Amir was struggling at the time,” shared his grandmother, who has been in touch with Officer Kertchaval ever since. “But after meeting the officer, we started to see a change. He’s been so much better.” Inspired by Amir’s progress, Officer Kertchaval decided to do something special to encourage him further.
“It’s not just about the gift,” said Officer Kertchaval. “It’s about showing Amir that his efforts to improve haven’t gone unnoticed. He’s a great kid, and I’m proud of him.”
The Atlanta Police Department shared the story on social media, praising Kertchaval’s dedication to community policing. “Thank you, Officer Kertchaval, for your commitment to building relationships and making a difference,” read a post from the department.
This act of kindness is a shining example of the Atlanta Police Department’s commitment to community policing. By building relationships and fostering trust, officers like Kertchaval are making a tangible difference in residents’ lives. The department’s initiatives, such as the “One Atlanta: Community Policing Roadmap” and the PIVOT program, focus on collaborative efforts to strengthen bonds between law enforcement and the community.
