Burien, Washington – Washington State Patrol (WSP) Chief John Batiste handed over his title to Carlos, 10, and Angel, 11, Callejas yesterday as part of the Washington State Criminal Justice Center’s “Chief for a Day” event.

On Thursday, August 18, 2016, dozens of law enforcement agencies from around the state swore in “Little Chiefs” to “run” their agency for the entire day. The event was sponsored by the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission and designed to celebrate the lives of children who have been diagnosed with a life threatening medical condition or chronic illness.

Both Carlos and Angel have cardiomyopathy, a heart condition that makes it difficult for the heart muscle to deliver blood to the body. Angel, whose dream is to be a police officer one day, just completed his second heart transplant a few months ago.

Although their title as WSP “Chief” is just an honorary one, Carlos and Angel got to ride in a police motorcade and were even given their own “Chief” badges by Chief Batiste. Following in the swearing in ceremony, they enjoyed the afternoon playing with K9s, checking out SWAT vehicles, and watching dozens of other law enforcement presentations/demonstrations.