Victorian police officer buys toy for son of accused thief

A heartwarming incident unfolded at a toy store when an Australian police officer extended a compassionate gesture towards an alleged shoplifter.

Cop’s incredible act for alleged thief

A heartwarming incident has unfolded at a Melbourne toy store when a police officer extended a compassionate gesture towards an alleged shoplifter.

Last Christmas Eve, surveillance footage captured a man snatching three wrestling figurines from Greensborough’s Toyworld Central shelves for his son, allegedly exiting without payment.

A police officer in Melbourne showed compassion towards an alleged shoplifter who stole three wrestling figurines for his son from a toy store. Picture: 7 News

The officer retrieved the items from the accused thief with the intention to return them and later surprised the staff by purchasing one of the toys for $39 to give it to the thief’s child for Christmas. Picture: 7 News

Store manager Tomeeka Neil recounted to 7 News: “On the way out, he completely ignored our person on the door who was acting as security.”

Staff pursued the man, alerting Greensborough police station.

A sergeant intercepted the bus the man boarded, arresting him.

The officer retrieved the items from the accused thief, intending to return them.

The officer’s act of kindness went unnoticed until it was reported by the media. Picture: 7 NEWS

But his subsequent action left the store’s staff stunned.

He returned to the shop, purchased one of the toys for $39 for the thief to give to his child for Christmas.

“He came back and actually purchased one of the items to give back to the thief to hand to his child for Christmas,” Ms Neil added.

Remarkably, the officer remained coy about the act, with colleagues unaware until contacted by media.