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New Jersey police department gives young boy Spider-Man gear following theft

South Jersey police departments steps up to help out young boy after theft
South Jersey police departments steps up to help out young boy after theft 02:17

WILLINGBORO, N.J. (CBS) -- Peter Parker famously says, "Anyone can wear the mask."

In the case of a stolen wallet, South Jersey police officers are putting on the mask, and stepping up to save the day.

"I could see myself in him a little bit. I just wanted to put a smile on the young man's face," Willingboro Police officer Alan Allen said.

Jahmene "JJ" Cubbage showed off his new backpack Thursday evening. After pulling out a notebook, he shared why he loves it: Spider-Man – his favorite superhero – graced the cover.

"I like him because I like his colors on his suit," Cubbage said.

Rewind to earlier this month, and JJ met a real-life superhero.

"Everybody was kind of stunned. They didn't know what was going on," Allen said.

Like any good superhero story – there's a back story.

"You don't see that too often – a bad situation being made positive," JJ's mom, Danika Thames-Cubbage, said.

This one happened a few weeks ago after Thames-Cubbage called 911 when someone broke into her car. JJ's beloved Spider-Man wallet was taken out, emptied and thrown into a nearby bush.

Inside was just $3 and a couple of gift cards.

"He likes to get hashbrowns in the morning before school. So I usually just keep a few dollars and money in there," Thames-Cubbage said.

Allen originally responded to the call, and then returned to the family's home a few days later with some friends and a surprise.

Together – the department gifted the 8-year-old a backpack stuffed with Spider-Man things -- a water bottle and Chick-fil-A gift card. In a video captured by Cubbage's dad, the future third-grader hugged Allen.

"It caught us off guard that they came back to even think about him. That he was even a second thought. We were grateful. Very, very grateful," Thames-Cubbage said.

As Spider-Man himself says, "With great power comes great responsibility." Responsibility is something Allen says he doesn't take lightly.

"I want the community to expect a positive outreach from police. We are here to help. I don't want them to be fearful of police," Allen said.

It's certainly a moment these two won't forget. One day, JJ said he too wants to be a superhero -- following in Allen's footsteps.

As for the case, the department said it remains active and open as detectives continue their investigation. 

Willingboro Township police want to remind residents – "if they see something, say something" – and to always lock their car doors and homes.

Willingboro Township police also offer several programs for the community including alarm registration, security camera registration and vacation checks.

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