Suffolk County Cops Hand Out Gifts, Not Tickets

PATCHOGUE, N.Y. (CBSNewYork) -- For drivers everywhere, getting pulled over can be one of the worst feelings imaginable.

As WCBS 880's Sophia Hall reports, some officers in Suffolk County managed to turn the experience into a pleasant holiday surprise this year.

Officers Brianne Yarborough and Alberto Acevedo from the Suffolk County Police Department were recorded pulling drivers over in Patchogue recently.

Instead of handing out moving violations, the officers came bearing gifts.

Acevedo was dressed up as Kris Kringle as he -- along with Yarborough -- handed out gift cards to bewildered motorists.

"It's just to say Merry Christmas from the police department," Acevedo said. "It's nice to see the kids. Their eyes light up and the smiles on their faces -- it's fantastic."

One driver said he was getting yelled at by his family until they realized the lights and sirens were a sign of good tidings.

"For once, it's a great feeling to pull cars over," Yarborough said. "A lot of times we pull people over and we're the bearer of bad news. A day like today it really makes you happy."

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