ASHLAND – A simple visit to the Ashland Public Safety Building turned into an hour-long adventure for three young visitors thanks to the kindness of Ashland Police Officer Manny Toscano.
A grandmother recently brought her grandchildren, Madeleine, Sophia and Patrick, to the station, with Patrick arriving dressed for the occasion in his police officer costume. While the family was looking at the displays in the lobby, Toscano introduced himself and offered to show them around.
During the tour, Toscano showed the children the department’s dispatch area, explained how prisoner processing works and gave them a closer look at several police vehicles. He also answered their questions, including some about Patrick’s toy handcuffs, and introduced them to his K-9 partner, Jack.
The children also received some Ashland Police Department gear before their visit continued at the Fire Department, where Firefighter Zack spent time with the family.
Following the visit, the children’s grandmother, Marion, wrote to Ashland Police Chief Rossi to express her appreciation for Toscano’s kindness and patience and for making her grandchildren feel comfortable and special.
The Ashland Police Department thanked Marion for sharing the family’s experience and Madeleine, Sophia and Patrick for stopping by, describing the interaction as an example of how community policing can begin with something as simple as saying hello.
