A Perry Elementary 1st grader was sworn in to the Lima Police Department this afternoon, by the Chief of Police and the Lima Mayor. The 7 year-old Honorary Police Officer has a passion for helping others, local law enforcement says he is their hero.
Because of his vivacious personality and positive enthusiasm you would never know 7-year-old Maleek Nelson is struggling with health problems. Born with a rare heart defect missing a valve that connects the lungs to the heart, he has been in and out of hospitals his whole life.
"So, you want to be a police officer when you grow up?" "Yeah!" "Why do you want to be a police officer when you grow up?" "Because they help people and protect them."
"He's just been through so much, as he was steady growing up all he ever wanted to was be a police officer and he wants to be the President of the United States and I told him there is nothing impossible that he can't do, he can do whatever he wants to do. You know he's just a trooper," said Maleek's father.
Lima Police Chief Kevin Martin met Maleek this year out trick or treating, he learned about his story and his love for law enforcement. The Police Department inspired by the young boy made him an honorary officer because of his positivity and bravery, but the officers also surprised him with a few other goodies.
Officer Mericle said, "He is going to get a certificate and a badge, the badge says honor policeman on it. After that we are going to walk him around the building and let him meet everybody, one of the sergeants is going to do a K-9 demo with him, we are also going to be taking him to Chuckie Cheese, they have agreed to allow us to come out and donate a pizza and some tokens for him."
Maleek said he will be wearing his badge with honor and pride around the city.
