Man visited by police just wanted a hug

Macomb County Sheriff's deputies responded to a call for a safety check on a driver pulled off to the side of the road, only to find a man in need of some emotional support.

Deputies found the man, referred to by authorities by the pseudonym "Joe," on the side of a quiet road overcome by tears. Joe was on his way to work when he decided to pull off the road because he was feeling overwhelmed by stress, according to the Macomb County Sheriff's Office.

In bodycam footage of the interaction, one deputy is heard asking him what they can do to help, Joe responds, "I could use a hug."

The deputy grants Joe's request and gives him a hug, the footage goes dark as the two men embrace and the only sounds are Joe's sobs. When he pulls away, Joe doubles over in tears.

Joe tells the deputies that he has sought professional help and turns to exercise to lift his spirits, but the negative feelings still weigh heavily on him. One deputy gives Joe the number for the Macomb County Crisis Center and his personal phone number as well.

In the end, Joe thanks the deputies for pulling over and says he's going to sit for another minute in his car.

For those in need of mental health support, the Macomb County Crisis Center can be reached 24/7 at 855-996-2264. Michiganders can call or text 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

READ MORE: https://www.freep.com/story/news/loca...

Video provided by Macomb County Sheriff's Office.

For more Detroit and Michigan news, sports and entertainment, follow the Detroit Free Press on:

Facebook - https://bit.ly/2T7zuV9
Twitter - https://bit.ly/2JeixbW
Instagram - https://bit.ly/2Chb7hR
Online - https://www.freep.com

#police #bodycam #feelgood