WINFIELD, W.Va. — Some Putnam County motorists may have been alarmed when they saw blue lights in the rearview mirror Wednesday afternoon.
“I’m sure there will be a lot of people showing emotions today,” said Putnam County Sheriff Steve Deweese.
Typically when you’re pulled over the first thing you think is how much the ticket is going to cost. However, in some cases Wednesday, deputies will be spreading some holiday cheer. Thanks to a generous donation by Appalachian Rail Car Service in Eleanor, deputies handed out out $100 Walmart gift cards to a number of “violators.”
“Two deputy sheriffs will be patrolling the streets and roadways of Putnam County this afternoon and pulling over motorists for minor violations,” Deweese said. “Instead of issuing a citation, we’re going to give them a $100 gift card to Walmart.”
Appalachian Rail Guard bought 30 of the gift cards to be distributed by the deputies. Deweese said it’s a thrill to be able to make such a positive impact just before Christmas when everybody could use a nice boost in spirit as well as the pocket book.
“This is the first time we’ve been fortunate enough to do this,” said Deweese, who has seen it done elsewhere. “I can’t thank Appalachian Railcar enough for their endeavors to make this happen for us.”