Richmond police officer receives award for helping child in crisis

Richmond City Police Officer Robert Capocelli has learned that something as simple as a teddy bear can sometimes make the difference in the outcome involving a child in crisis.

Capocelli, from the Richmond Police Department’s 4th precinct, was awarded UMFS’ first Community Champion Award for how he handled a recent situation involving a child in crisis. The award was  presented during the organization’s Midtown Fall Festival, which took place on Friday, September 23rd.

“Officer Capocelli upheld the highest standards and respect for a child in distress and we think he deserves an award for handling it with creativity and compassion,” said Greg Peters, CEO of UMFS. “He not only took time out of his day to present the child with a stuffed animal, making a major impact in the child’s response, but he stayed on campus for several hours to support the child during the intake process.”

Specific details of the child in crisis cannot be released due to their being a minor.