Wearing a neatly pressed police uniform designed just for his 4’2" frame, Officer Shevy Wright, 9-years old, lived out his dream of becoming a police officer…if only for a day.
Shevy Wright became Chandler, Arizona’s youngest police officer after Chief Sherry Kiyler learned of a dying boy’s dream to become a police officer.
He had been diagnosed with a terminal brain tumor and his final wish was to become a police officer. Chief Kiyler helped Shevy’s dream come true.
On the day that Shevy became an honorary officer, he was sworn in by Chief Kiyler in front of city officials, police command staff, family and his fellow Chandler officers.
He was presented with a badge, a license plate with his badge number and a day filled with police-related activities. A real dream come true kind of day for a boy of nine.
"I like it. I like being a cop," Shevy said that day. "I have a Taser gun, a radio, a flashlight, handcuffs and keys, and a badge. I like being a police officer because I can catch the bad guys."
Sadly, Shevy lost his battle with the biggest bad guy in his life—cancer.
As I walked past his casket Friday night, he was again wearing his custom-made police uniform, complete with a taser and police radio. Officer Shevy Wright had answered his final call.
Saturday morning, officers from neighboring cities will join with Chandler officers to honor Officer Wright as he is laid to rest with full police honors.
Although an officer for just one day, Shevy touched the hearts of many with his youthful courage and enthusiasm for a dream that almost never came true.
God speed, Officer Shevy. May you rest in peace.
I love the picture of Shevy in the Police Officer Uniform. I think it is great that he was able to have his wish fulfilled. Those are such special memories that are able to be created and held dear for him and family. I hope the family is comforted at their time of loss. In reading this article, I think Shevy was a blessing to those in his midst and able to touch hearts of those who read of him.
He looks so alive, so well. How would you deal with being told your child, who looks healthy, is dying and there’s nothing to be done? Obviously he was a special young man, but geez, I’m just so sad.
What a wonderful gesture taken by the city of Chandler. Thanks for sharing this Brian. I’m sure there wasn’t a dry eye at the viewing, seeing him dressed in the police uniform.
Not much to be said. Not much that CAN be said. Wonderful story. Thanks.
I never had the opportunity to meet Shevy, but in speaking with those who had that opportunity, he was truly a special young man.
I tried to fight back the tears at the viewing (doesn’t fit the image of someone in uniform to have tears streamin down their cheeks), but I cried anyhow. To not cry would have done Shevy a dishonor.
Rest in peace, Shevy. Your brothers and sisters in blue will take the watch from here. 10-7, Good day!