Police issue gift cards to some folks during traffic stops

Some officers at the Pocatello Police Department are taking action to try and make sure folks in need are going home with extra money in their pockets this holiday season.

On Monday, getting pulled over might not be such a bad thing for some drivers. Instead of some drivers being let-off the hook with just a warrant, some might also be walking away with a $20 Wal Mart gift certificate as well.

Lt. Paul Manning said they only have a handful of these gift certificates, but wanted to do something for citizens in the community who are having a tough time this holiday season and who have a stand-up record.

“By doing this, we don’t encourage bad driving and we don’t want people out there breaking the law in hopes of getting a gift card because there is a good chance they have already been given out by now – it’s just the thought of making someone’s holiday a little brighter,” Manning said.

He said these gift cards were paid for through anonymous donors throughout the community.