Local deputies hand out cash instead of tickets

TUCSON, AZ (Tucson News Now) - Instead of writing tickets, local deputies are surprising people in need in our community, with cash this holiday season.

"We want to help you for your holidays," Pima County Sheriff's Deputy, Kolby Abbott said.

"Oh my God. Oh my God!," Serina Munoz said.

Tucson News Now followed along as Pima County Sheriff's motorcycle deputies acted as "Secret Santas," stopping the less fortunate around town to give them $100.

The Secret Santa program is all possible thanks to an anonymous donor. The donor gave deputies $10,000 last year and $15,000 this year. He wanted to have deputies hand out the cash in hopes of improving law enforcement relationships with the public. Deputies are walking up to people coming out of Goodwill or waiting at the bus stop, after talking with them for a few minutes they determine if the person could really benefit from the cash.

"This is my kids first Christmas and I was kind of rushing about what I was going to get him for Christmas and this extra hundred dollars really worked out," Munoz said.

Tucson News Now spoke to one family trying to get back on their feet. The Sotos were actually on their way to donate plasma as a way to get money to buy their kids presents, when they were stopped by deputies.

"It was a major surprise. We're thankful," Manny Soto said.

"I don't even have words. Just shocking," Delilah Soto said.

"Just to be able to see them light up and see the emotion for some of these people, you can't help but get excited yourself," Deputy Abbott said.

The deputies will continue to hand out cash through the holiday season. Later this week the Sheriff's Department will be handing out presents to children at Banner UMC, the Ronald McDonald House, and Fisher House.

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