An off-duty police officer in Greenbelt will receive a Compassionate Action Award from PETA for helping a turtle cross the road in heavy rain.
On Sunday, a concerned citizen flagged down Officer Sharnise Hawkins-Graham to notify her about the animal. Officer Hawkins-Graham got out of her car and stood in the street during a rain storm to make sure the turtle crossed the road safely. One person driving by the officer got out of their car to hold an umbrella for her while she protected the animal.
PETA Vice President Colleen O'Brien commended Officer Hawkins-Graham for her actions. O'Brien stated, "Officer Hawkins-Graham didn't hesitate to do her part to give a turtle a boost in the right direction and help keep the animal safe from passing cars. Local residents are fortunate to have such a compassionate officer who—whether on or off duty—acts swiftly to help those in need, and PETA hopes this story will inspire people everywhere to do the same."
PETA will send Officer Hawkins-Graham a framed certificate and a box of delicious vegan cookies.
Officer Hawkins-Graham is also a 2017 Police Officer of the Year award recipient.
