Police Officer Adopts Little Girl He Comforted While On Duty

In Arizona, a police officer's life took a heartwarming turn when he decided to adopt a young girl he met while on duty.

Lieutenant Brian Zach of the Kingman Police Department, along with his wife Cierra, officially welcomed 4-year-old Kaila into their family on August 18, 2020.

Credit: GMA / Brian Zach

Back in March 2018, while working as a patrol sergeant, Zach responded to a call at Kaila's home. 

There, he discovered that she was a victim of abuse. 

Recalling the night, Zach told "Good Morning America," 

Credit: GMA / Brian Zach

"We colored, we snacked ... she held my hand and she was just this cute little thing. Once detectives came, they picked her up and took her to the hospital."

Already a father of two, Zach felt a strong connection with Kaila.

After spending hours with her, he went home and expressed to his wife his desire for Kaila to live with them.

At the time, Kaila was receiving treatment for multiple injuries from physical abuse, and criminal charges were filed against her caretakers.

Credit: GMA / Brian Zach

When child protective services struggled to find immediate placement for Kaila, Brian and Cierra stepped in.

"She came with a sippy cup, a bag of clothes that didn't fit her and that was it," Zach recalled.

He noted that Kaila quickly warmed up to them, saying, "Within the second day she was calling my wife 'mom' or 'mommy.'"

"I was 'guy' for a week or two and then when she started preschool she learned who dad was."

The adoption became official 30 months later at the Mohave County Superior Court in Lake Havasu City.

Credit: GMA / Brian Zach

Zach reflected, "We lived each week not knowing if she was going to go back to her biological parents, or how long we were going to keep her. Our goal was to love and care for this little girl for as long as it happened."

Rusty Cooper, the Kingman Police Department's chief of police, praised the Zachs to GMA, stating, 

"Lt. Brian Zach’s commitment to public safety is exemplified in his commitment and love for Kaila. Both Brian and his wife Cierra are amazing parents."

Credit: GMA / Brian Zach

"They are committed to the service of others and a cause that is greater than themselves."

"We are proud of Brian and thankful that he and his family are part of the Kingman Police Department."

Kaila now enjoys preschool, animals, dancing, and imaginative play. 

Zach described her as, "So comical, so witty. She's just a character."

For families wanting to adopt, Zach's advice is clear: don't fear the process, as it's "well worth it."