Last week after softball practice I found myself in a terrible spot that we can all relate to. I locked my keys in my car and was stuck in a somewhat strange place with no way to get back in my car. It was a trying evening and the outcome can only be attributed to the Cleveland Police Department. What follows is my letter to Cleveland’s Police Department.

Dear Cleveland Police,

A week ago today I found myself in an unfortunate situation. After softball practice at Clark Fields in Tremont I locked my keys (the only set I have) in my bag, in the trunk of my car. I called a few locksmiths who wanted between $90 – $120 to unlock my car for me. I didn’t want to spend that kind of money, so I began trying to get into my own car with a wire hanger. In the midst of this, my iPhone died, this meant that not only could I not call my significant other to rescue me, I had no light either. The situation was looking bleak.

After 2 hours I decided to call Cleveland PD using the cell phone of a good samaritan who stopped to help. I knew that a police officer would have more important things to do then slim jim my Taurus, but I had to try. I was out of options. The lady who answered the main desk line listened politely to my situation and informed me that unless the car was running, or someone was trapped in it, the police could not intervene. Before I could say thanks and hang up she continued, “…but, I have a few contacts at the towing companies and I am sure I can get you a better price than you were quoted. Let me put you on hold.” Now I am starting to have a little hope.

After 2 or 3 minutes the lady came back on the phone, “Hey there, I called one place who wanted $50…I think I can do better, hang on again for me.” By this point, $50 is starting to sound really good. I am tired, agitated, upset, and I know that people close to me are getting worried that they haven’t heard from me. A few minutes later, the woman returns to the phone with good news, “Alright, Kufner Towing will open your car for $35 and the driver is at the impound lot, two minutes away from where you are. He will be right there.” I thanked the guardian angel on the other end of the phone and gave the phone back to its owner, and thanked them for their help.

Kufner Towing came, unlocked my car in 2 minutes and I was on my way, $35 lighter in the wallet, but thankful for the good people I had come across that night. I got into my car, plugged my phone in and called the people that were worried. The night could have been much worse had I not come across a few good samaritans and a wonderful worker at the Cleveland Police Department, who went above and beyond the call of duty to help me out of a rough spot. I don’t know the operator’s name, and I wouldn’t know her if I passed her on the street. But what I do know is that had it not been for her, this would have been a very different story.

I am writing this letter to thank the Cleveland Police Department, who in one fleeting moment last week, really did Protect and Serve. Thank you for your help, I am proud to call this city my home.

Gratefully,

Kory