Apprehended a Shoplifter and Gave Him Sandwich

August, 6, 2010

Albuquerque Public Safety Director Darren White recognized on Friday an off-duty 911 Operator who was on his way to work when he apprehend a shoplifter at Shell Giant gas station. Upon learning the alleged thief was stealing for food, the off-duty city employee also fed him.

Rob Kessel was named this week’s Friday’s Hero. Each week Mayor Richard J. Berry or Director White recognizes at least one public safety employee who goes above the call of duty.

“This incident shows how committed our public safety employees are to this community,” Director White said. “Rob was off-duty and could have simply walked way. Instead he took action, called police and then showed compassion.”

On July 24 , Rob Kessel was off duty and on his way to work when he stopped at a Giant gas station in the 6500 block of Paradise NW. While inside, he witnessed a young man steal a pack of cigarettes.

Kessel said he went into “autopilot and took action, when he apprehended the 16-year-old offender. Kessel then called police and waited with the man until officers arrived.

When the boy told Kessel he was going to sell the cigarettes for food, the 911 operator bought the boy a sandwich. The boy was eventually released to his mother.