To the Editor:

These days we hear a lot of negative information regarding the police. We all know there are problems that do need correcting.

I, however, have a different story to tell. On April 16, I was given a speeding ticket.

My family laughed when I told them. Why? Because I use cruise control all the time.

Top speed 45 mph — yes, that is me. What happened that day: It was on cruise control, but while thinking how my electric bill had created a shortfall (I am on a fixed income) and how I was going to pay all of my bills, somehow my foot went back to the gas pedal and, duh, a ticket.

The officer told me that because I had a clean driving record I should go to court. I did. When I pled guilty the judge asked, “Then why are you here?”

My answer, “To throw myself on the mercy of the Court.”

Yes, Virginia, there is a kind judge in traffic court in Southampton County. My case was dismissed and I was told I could pay my court cost over time.

What a blessing. But here is the most incredible part. The officer who gave me a ticket paid my court costs. His name is Richard Walker. Here is a wonderful example of the police force doing God’s work — helping a stranger, being kind.

I will pay him back. Like many people on fixed incomes, our electric bills control our lives. But angels are everywhere — unseen — but helping us.

Joy Cartwright
Franklin