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By DONALD MOTTERN | Staff Writer

HELENA – Casey Sutch, an officer with the Helena Police Department, has taken it upon himself to spread Christmas cheer and good spirit in the days leading up to the holiday.

In recognition of the spirit of the season, rather than writing a ticket or official warning, Sutch has surprised those he has pulled over in Helena with Chick-Fil-A gift cards that are accompanied, of course, with a simple reminder to follow the rules of the road.

After first bringing the idea to Helena Mayor Brian Puckett, Sutch, who serves as an SRO at Helena High School, began the personal initiative which allows a simple gesture to bring smiles to the city’s residents. His actions have transformed what can normally be an unwelcome experience into another source of Christmas goodwill.

Purchasing the cards himself, Sutch began the activity starting on Dec. 20, and has continued doing so in the days leading up to Christmas.

“This is a great example of the Christmas spirit,” said Council President Alice Lobell.

Originally from Ohio, and with eight years of prior service to the Tuscaloosa Police Department, Sutch started working with the Helena Police Department in the latter months of 2022. His role as an officer in Helena and as an SRO has allowed him to be a constant face of positivity and outreach in the community.

Earlier this month, Sutch was also spotted performing his duties in full elf costume, complete with pointed shoes and hat.

“All of this has been out of his own time and money. He is truly one of the reasons our community is what it is,” Puckett said. “(We are a) people that truly care about one another.”