Clewiston police bring gifts to 4-year-old boy

It was Christmas in October for a young boy when he received a heartwarming surprise from Clewiston police. When the local police learned the young boy and his family were struggling, these real-life superheroes came to the rescue.

Four-year-old Harlin received toys, blankets and clothes from Clewiston Police Department.

“Ready?” Detective Jennifer Diaz asked Harline, as she led him to his surprise.

The modest young man he is, Harlin asked, “Which one is mine?”

“All of it is yours!” Diaz told Harlin.

Among his gifts, Harlin was excited to receive a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles blanket.

“Could you help me open it?” Harlin asked. “This one is on my Christmas list.”

Harlin’s grandmother, Sharon Etzweiler, said it is Christmas come early for a family in need.

“The family is broken right now,” Etzweiler said. “I’m taking care of three of the children. The outpouring of everything, everything has been great.”

For Detective Diaz, this case became personal.

“We hung out with the family, and I got to see what [Harlin] liked to play with,” Diaz said.

The community, near and far, also stepped up after Diaz posted about the family’s needs on Facebook.

“People that come from all over the United States, they see our posts,” Diaz said. “And they’ll mail us in stuff as well.”

Diaz feels a great sense of satisfaction being able to support the community beyond law enforcement.

“It’s an awesome feeling when you get to see that these children are so appreciative of what we do,” Diaz said.