A.J. Campbell named honorary police officer
Scott Township Commissioners took time at the beginning of the May 12 agenda meeting to honor A.J. Campbell as an honorary police officer. Campbell, 21, is recovering from anoxic brain injury due to cardiac arrest during boxing practice about a year ago. His dream was to be a police officer.
“We thought they were just going to make him an officer for a day, but the chief was so touched by his story, that he made him an honorary officer for life,” said A.J.’s mother, Susie Weinzierl. “So, that means he’ll get to go to events with them.” A.J. was able to fire a training handgun and a taser, and officers’ signed his pockholed target. Weinzierl said A.J., who was going to CCAC for criminology to become an officer before his injury, smiled throughout the ceremony, but the occasion was bittersweet.
“It was a dream for him to become a cop. But by the time we got home, he forgot everything, of course. But we have videos, and that target,” Weinzierl said.
Recovery for Campbell could take up to three years, and medical expenses are accumulating. A benefit for Campbell is scheduled for July 11 at 31 Sports Bar & Grille in Bridgeville. Doors open at 6 p.m. and tickets are $15, available in advance or at the door. There will be live music, a Chinese auction, 50/50 raffle and more. Attendees must be 18 years of age or older, and those ages 18 to 20 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
Tickets can be purchased in advance by contacting Amy or Susie at AJbenefit@gmail.com. Donations can also be made at www.gofundme.com/jak95c.
Multimedia reporter David Singer contributed to this story.