LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Police cars lined Lake Dreamland Road on Friday for a special birthday celebration for a Louisville boy with autism.
"It's amazing that so many people went together and did this for him," said Nancy Ashley. Nancy's grandson Malachi turned 9-years-old on October 4 and he had just one wish for his birthday.
"That's all he's ever wanted to do is be a police officer," Ashley said.
Thanks to the generosity of some local departments, Malachi got the ultimate birthday present. Earlier this week his mother, Stacy Pavelka, posted on Facebook asking if an officer would mind coming to see Malachi. His family never imagined that dozens would show up on their doorstep.
Officers, sheriff's deputies, and firefighters came to witness a special event as Malachi was sworn in as an honorary police officer by Lieutenant Edward Wagner.
It may just be his first day with his new title, but Malachi already has big plans. His first order of business?
"Arrest prisoners so they don't rob banks," he said.
Ashley was worried that all the excitement could be too much for her grandson, but a calm smile remained on Malachi's face as he sat in a police car and spent time with his heroes.
"Malachi, he's got autism and he's doing really great today. We thought maybe he'd be overwhelmed, but he's doing very good," said Nancy.
It's a small gesture that has a lasting impact.
Contact reporter Kristin Goodwillie at KGoodwillie@whas11.com and follow her on Twitter and Facebook.
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