When an 8-year-old boy dressed up as a police officer for career day, some bullies stopped him in the hallway and assaulted him for dressing like a cop. However, once city officials heard what had happened, they ensured that the third-grader would get the last laugh.

After his school announced that students should dress up for career day as their dream profession, 8-year-old Michael Martinez knew exactly what he wanted to be. With a big dream and a courageous heart, he put on his police uniform, got into his wheelchair, and proudly set off to school. Little did he know, his choice of attire would make him a target for bullies.

On arriving at school, students quickly noticed Michael’s outfit. Within moments, a group formed around him in the hallway, some mocking his uniform. Then, a few bullies tipped him out of his wheelchair, angered by his choice to honor police.

Thankfully, other students witnessed this and rushed to help Michael. They managed to fend off the bullies and helped him back into his wheelchair. Used to facing tough challenges, Michael stayed calm during the attack and continued his day with resilience.

Hearing about the incident, Harris County constables were dismayed by the bullies’ actions but were also moved by Michael’s bravery. They decided to show him that they were on his side, recognizing his spirit that is vital for law enforcement.

According to KTRK, city officials decided to honor Michael for his courage by making his dream come true. They swore him in as an Honorary Harris County Deputy Constable. He was officially inducted and recognized by multiple county precincts.

The next day, Michael went back to school in his police uniform once again. This time, however, he arrived in a deputy constable patrol vehicle with a motorcade of police officers. He rolled into the school with his head held high, showing the bullies that their intimidation wouldn’t hold him down.

In addition to his role as a deputy, Michael was named Honorary District Attorney’s investigator and was sworn in as a Junior Firefighter by Houston Fire Department’s Chief Sam Pena. These were not just token titles.

Just months prior, Michael had shown his heroic nature by saving his entire family. He had heard the carbon monoxide alarm go off while sleeping on the ground floor of his home. Realizing the danger, he managed to pull himself upstairs to awaken his family, saving them from carbon monoxide poisoning.

Michael has defied stereotypes and proven himself to be a true protector. Even when faced with bullying, he remains kind and determined, qualities that are essential in the field of law enforcement.

No child should ever feel afraid to aspire to be a police officer. The animosity and discrimination against those in law enforcement are harmful to our society and are impacting our children directly.