Collier County Corporal makes new friend on patrol

EAST NAPLES, Fla. — A Collier County Sheriff’s Office corporal found that random acts of kindness happen when least expected.

Cpl. William Pschigoda was on duty Wednesday evening in the parking lot of the Freedom Square shopping center, when he noticed a silver SUV drive up. A man exited the vehicle, according to a CCSO Facebook post.

“With all of the negative things going on involving officers getting ambushed and hurt, I prepared for the possibility of a negative encounter with the stranger,” Pschigoda said.

Unexpectedly, 5-year-old Jaden Velez appeared from the vehicle, and gave Pschigoda some chips and a soda.

Her father, Tony Velez, added how Jaden noticed Pschigoda in the Publix parking lot, and wanted to purchase some snacks for him.

In addition, Tony said how he appreciated Pschigoda’s service. After their warm exchange, Tony and Jaden left.

“… I am sitting here in the same spot in the parking lot watching the sunset and thinking how lucky I am to have the career that I do in the community that I serve,” Pschigoda said.