Instead of Giving Out Tickets, Texas Police Surprised Drivers With This Kind Gesture

Police officers in Fort Worth, TX, pulled drivers over for minor traffic violations, but instead of issuing tickets, they gave out turkeys. Inspired by the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday, the force decided to share its gratitude with the community, but also send a message: police are there to protect and serve citizens.

Given the rising tensions between police and civilians, particularly within the black community, the Fort Worth police department's gesture is poignant. Speaking with ABC News, G. Calzada, the officer who organized the giveaway, said, "We wanted to let our citizens know that we're not just out to give people tickets and take them to jail; we're also here to serve our community."

The approximately 25 people the department pulled over were nervous at first, but when they received a turkey, their anxiety turned to appreciation. One man, Howard Miles, told ABC what's so powerful about the gesture: "I'm pleased to see it because there's so much hate in this country right now."