"Officer Johns considered the situation and then made the decision to purchase the diapers out of his own pocket so that the young child would not suffer. It's worth noting that the female was still issued a criminal citation for the theft.
"Though it's but a snapshot of some of the work your officers are doing daily, we still wanted to take a moment to thank officer Johns for not just fairly enforcing the law, but also showing empathy to an innocent child put in a difficult situation."
The Facebook post has since gone viral with hundreds of people leaving comments both supporting and criticising the police.
"So hit her with a fine and court cost, but you bought her diapers, totally fixed all her problems. Thanks so much," one Facebook user posted.
"If the store wants to press charges ... he HAS to give a citation. He has no choice in the matter. Know the law before you run your mouth. No good deed goes unpunished on FB," someone else explained.
The police department also received a number of offers of donations for the struggling mother.