Dartmouth Police officers went out of their way to surprise a three year old at his home on February 20.

Officers Steven Canario and Jeremy Smith first met Evan Coe — who was wearing a policeman costume — outside of his Dartmouth home, said Canario. Lieutenants Greg Rutch and James Storey, and Officer Scott Affonce also stopped by for the 15-minute visit, volunteering their time off hours.

"He gave me a hug, grabbed my hand, and said 'Let's go. I’m going with you. Let’s go get bad guys,'" recalled Canario. "He immediately felt like he was one of us. He was part of the team."

The visit was prompted by a Facebook message from Evan's mother, Sonia Coe.

"My son Evan keeps begging me to go to the police station. He just loves officers. He calls them his best friends," she posted.

Canario arranged the visit, and upon meeting Coe, allowed him to sit in the cruiser and talk on the PA system.

"With all the negativity out there about police officers, it was refreshing to have a child request to meet us," said Canario. "I couldn’t resist the opportunity. Nothing could make you feel better going home after your tour than knowing you made a kids day."

Afterwards, the officers gifted Coe with police stickers, a Dartmouth Police patch, and a police ball cap.