A police officer who brightened Christmas for the three children and the mother of a suspect he had arrested is being honored as January’s “Employee of the Month” at the Aurora Police Department.

On Dec. 17, 2013, Officer Doug Rashkow was sent to investigate an unknown disturbance at a residence on the Near East side, and learned a woman had been battered and her prescription medicine forcibly taken by her boyfriend who intended to sell it. 

The man, who had his three children with him during the commission of the crime, then ran off with the kids in 19 degree weather.

In order to expedite locating the man and his children, Rashkow called the suspect’s mother and convinced her to check on their welfare and also asked her to have the man call Rashkow. 

Within two minutes, the suspect called Rashkow and told him he had ingested a large quantity of the pills he stole. Rashkow was able to persuade the offender to meet him and seek medical attention prior to his arrest. Rashkow then secured care for the man’s children with their grandmother.

After learning from their grandmother that she had no money to buy the children Christmas presents, Rashkow paid for gifts out of his own pocket and secured a $250 check for the children’s care through a local veteran’s organization. 

He then delivered the presents to the family when he was off-duty.

“Officer Rashkow’s actions demonstrate his unwavering commitment to justice and care for the people he serves”, said Chief of Police Greg Thomas. “The family will always remember his kindness and compassion.”  

Rashkow has been an Aurora Police officer since May, 1992.

–News Bulletin news sources