The father added, “I’m not used to getting help from cops.”
When Butler heard Schweikhard’s story and learned that he lost his job and his car was dead, he wanted to help out.
“It was the right thing to do,” Butler said. “Because at any point in time in our lives any one of us can be in that same situation — offering assistance to another human being is the right thing to do.”
Butler and fellow Lakewood Police officers were able to help the father and daughter find a shelter in which to stay. They also had Ace Towing bring Schweikhard’s SUV to Sun Valley Automotive to have it fixed. Both companies happily agreed to donate their services.
“Feels really different to help someone who you know is down on their luck,” said Sun Valley Automative owner Jere Burton.
Officers are also working to help Schweikhard and his daughter find permanent housing. The father is very grateful for the officers’ help.
