LAPD Officers Raise Donations for Stranded Thai Boy

Los Angeles – Phanupong Khaisri ("Got") was brought to the United States by a couple who had rented him in Thailand for $250.00 in order to enter the States looking like a family on vacation. Got is 3 years old and has HIV. He is in the care of Chutima Vucharatavintara, an activist living in the Highland Park section of Northeast Division. She is providing him temporary shelter until the authorities can decide whether he will be allowed to stay in the U.S. or returned to Thailand with his grandparents. While here, Got will need to have his medical needs and living expenses provided for by Chutima and her family. Officer Marjan Mobasser and Officer Rita Vallejo of Northeast Community Relations Office have collected donations from officers assigned to Northeast Area in order to assist the family.

On Friday, September 1, 2000 at 11:00 a.m., Captain Richard Meraz, Commanding Officer, Northeast Area and officers from Northeast Area Community Relations Office will visit Got and present him with collected donations at Chutima’s home. Officer Phermsangngam who is assigned to the Training Division will assist in communicating with Got in his native language.

Ms. Chutima Vucharatavintara’s resides at 1049 North Avenue 50, Los Angeles, CA 90042

For further information, please contact Officer Marjan Mobasser, Northeast Area Community Relations Office at 213-485-2548.

This press release was prepared by Public Information Officer Jason Lee, Media Relations Section 213-485-3586.