In April 2015 Poteau patrolman Jody Thompson responded to a 911 call of an 8-year-old boy who had freed himself from being held captive, bound by ropes, and starved by his parents.
Thompson guided those from other agencies through that evening and the next day. Following the case, a bond was created between Thompson and the boy.
Upon his release from the hospital, the Thompson family opened their home to provide him a safe environment, eventually adopting him adopted him and his baby sister, giving them the assurance they would not have to endure such horrendous acts.
“You exemplify the kind of officer your community, city and the State of Oklahoma are blessed to have serving and protecting them. Your compassion is to be admired. You are most deserving of the commendation.”
These were the words Stan D. Florence, director of the Oklahoma Bureau of Investigation, said to Thompson during a presentation Monday afternoon at the Poteau police department honoring the officer.
“Jody’s actions as well has his families are second to none! The example of love and compassion he has shown to this young man and his sister is an example everyone should follow,” Poteau police chief Stephen Fruen told Thompson. “It’s men like you that make me proud of our law enforcement brothers and sisters. You are very deserving of this commendation. I am proud to serve with you.”
OSBI director Florence and Chief Fruen also took the opportunity to sign a Memorandum of Understanding formalizing the partnership between the two agencies.
