A city of Pharr Firefighter, and author, is hoping the subject of his latest children’s book will help make a difference in the perception of law enforcement officers. Many Valley residents are familiar with the questionable but sometimes effective form of discipline that inspired Santos Vallejo’s, 32, new children’s book titled ‘Protect and Serve’.
Oftentimes, many well-meaning parents will tell their children that they will turn them into the police if they do not behave.
While many can laugh at the empty threat in retrospect, Vallejo is using this example to teach children the lesson that police do not need to be feared.
Vallejo often uses children’s books to communicate messages to his own children.
“It’s an easy way to start developing their minds because a lot of the times they like to play video games, watch cartoons, and I feel like we’re straying away from reading,” said Vallejo.