Police officers pay tab for couple who refused to sit next to them

A Homestead police team from the Pittsburgh area decided to take a break from fighting crime and sit down for dinner.

However, while dining at the Eat n' Park, another patron refused to be seated next to the police officers. This was likely due to tension toward law enforcement in the aftermath of the recent publicity surrounding police shootings.

One of the officers tried to ease the tension, ensuring the patron there was nothing to worry about. Officer Chuck Thomas recalled, "I said it's OK, sit. You won't have to worry about it. We won't hurt you."

Still, the patron refused the seat and walked away.

The officers did not allow themselves to be offended by the patron's actions. Instead, they decided to try another way to prove not all police are evil.

One of the officers, Officer Strang, suggested the group pay for the disgruntled patron's tab. They paid the $29 bill, and also left a note on the receipt that said, "Sir, your check was paid for by the police officers that you didn't want to sit next to. Thank you for the support."

They even added a $10 tip for the server, which finally led to a smile and a thank you.

Officer Thomas explained their goal was to ensure these civilians that these police are there to help society.

He said, "We work for the public, and we just want to better the relationship between the community and the police."