The teenage years are scary for everyone, but the thought of your child getting a driver’s license is enough to make your heart drop. It’s hard enough to protect them as is— nevermind when they’re barreling down a highway encased in metal and steel.
Sadly, motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death amongst 15-20-year-olds, the National Center for Health reports. Males seem to have a penchant for dangerous driving, making up 2/3 of all fatalities. And although the numbers may seem grim, male driving deaths have still decreased by 72% since 1975.
Portage Police Chief Manthey is a big proponent of driving safety.
The loveable officer has been serving the community for over 40 years and is respected for his kindness and bravery. Although Manthey doesn’t feel “old” per se, he has noticed the drivers he pulls over keep looking younger and younger. This observation is what led him to create an adorable spoof video that has since gone viral.
“I always joke drivers keep looking younger and younger to us,” he said.
“So, we decided to do a spook of traffic stops.”
In the video, you see Manthey pull over two little boys driving a toy convertible.
The chief rolls his SUV into the driveway and approaches the convertible’s driver side. What follows is a hilarious dialogue that’s taken the internet by storm.
First, the chief asks them if they know why he’s pulled them over.
“You were going too fast,” he tells them.
“You were doing 25 in a 35.”
Anyone who’s ever been stopped can relate the driver’s expression as he turns to the camera with a mischievous grin.
Throughout the video, the chief continues to ask the young boys questions— receiving hysterical replies.
“Is this your car,” he asks the driver, who subsequently shakes his head ‘no’. “It’s not stolen, is it?” replies the chief, feigning complete shock. My personal favorite is when Manthey asks how long they’ve been driving, and their answer cracks everyone up. After asking the boys about their driver’s license and insurance, the chief ultimately lets them off with a warning.
The interaction was filmed by Manthey’s wife, who later gave him permission to share the video on the department’s Facebook page. People love the way the friendly officer jokes around with the young boys. In a time where police are often portrayed as dangerous or violent, it’s always refreshing to see such pleasantries.
Since being uploaded, Manthey’s video’s been viewed thousands of times.
“Portage could not be more blessed than to have Kenny Manthey leading his Department by good examples. But you missed the no belt seat violation, Ken,” one commenter joked.
“The 20-minute comment cracked me up!” exclaimed another.
Watch the adorable video below!
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