Sheriff Chad Chronister is proud to recognize the remarkable dedication and selflessness of Crossing Guard Christine Cruz, who recently went above and beyond her duties to assist an elderly woman in need. Sheriff Chronister commends Cruz for her heroic act, showcasing the true spirit of community service.
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On May 5, 2023, at approximately 4:12 p.m., Christine Cruz, a crossing guard stationed at Mann Middle School, noticed an 84-year-old woman approaching the intersection of Jersey and Parsons Avenues. The woman appeared disoriented and was visibly sweating, raising concerns about her well-being. Sensing that she needed assistance crossing the road, Cruz immediately sprang into action.
Cruz approached the woman and kindly asked if she was okay. The woman non-verbally indicated that she was not. Her speech was slurred, further indicating her distress. Leveraging her fluency in Spanish, Cruz communicated with the woman, who was later identified as Laude Semprit. Semprit could not remember exactly where she lived, only explaining the general direction.
Cruz recognized the woman's family name as the name of a business truck parked at a nearby house. Cruz walked Semprit home, reuniting her with her family.
"Christine Cruz exemplifies the values of the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office, going above and beyond the call of duty to ensure the safety and well-being of our community," said Sheriff Chad Chronister. "Her selfless act of kindness towards Mrs. Perez highlights her exceptional dedication and commitment to service."
Semprit's family was unaware she had left home. The family expressed their heartfelt gratitude to Cruz, revealing that she has dementia."
We are blessed that we had that woman, ya know, and she brought her here," said Jose Perez, Laude's son. "She didn't have to do that, but she did, and we are so happy that she did."
"I am proud to recognize the critical role played by crossing guards like Christine Cruz, who not only ensure the safety of students but also demonstrate unwavering vigilance in caring for the broader community," said Sheriff Chad Chronister. "We are incredibly proud of Christine Cruz and the countless other crossing guards who display exemplary dedication to public safety. Their commitment makes a significant difference in the lives of Hillsborough County residents. We deeply appreciate Christine and applaud her for being a true community hero."