Newark police officer buys kids new bikes

One Newark family got an early Christmas present courtesy of a Newark police officer. Sgt. Juan Gonzalez bought two new bikes for 14-year-old Jeliana and 7-year-old Elijah after their Christmas gifts

News 12 Staff

Dec 22, 2016, 8:38 AM

Updated 2,697 days ago

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Newark police officer buys kids new bikes
One Newark family got an early Christmas present courtesy of a Newark police officer.
Sgt. Juan Gonzalez bought two new bikes for 14-year-old Jeliana and 7-year-old Elijah after their Christmas gifts were stolen.
The kids' father, Alexander Velazquez, had bought them similar bikes weeks ago and hid them so the kids couldn't find them. Someone else did and stole them from the apartment building -- just blocks from the Second Precinct. 
"I read the report," Sgt. Gonzalez said. "It kind of tugged at my heartstrings, and I contacted him personally and asked if I could replace those items for him."
The children said they are very thankful for the bikes and that Sgt. Gonzalez made their Christmas "really happy."
For those inspired to also give for the holiday, Newark police are still collecting for their citywide toy drive.


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