In the early hours of January 31, Phyllis Pena demonstrated the incredible lengths a mother will go to protect her children. When she returned home in Lake Jackson, Texas, and saw a man looking into her 15-year-old daughter’s window, she immediately took action.
Pena spotted the man, later identified as Zane Hawkins, and called the police. While waiting for the authorities to arrive, Hawkins attempted to escape, but Pena wasn’t about to let him get away.
The dramatic moment was captured by an officer’s dash cam as Pena tackled Hawkins, preventing him from fleeing. Sgt. Roy Welch remarked on Pena’s bravery, saying, “It’s not very often that we have somebody that actually steps in, puts themselves in harm’s way to assist in apprehending somebody.”
Despite the potential danger to herself, Pena’s maternal instincts kicked in. She emphasized the importance of protecting her children, stating, “My kids are my life, and just making sure I protect them.”
Hawkins was arrested and faced charges of possession of a controlled substance, evading arrest, and resisting arrest. Pena’s quick thinking and courage helped ensure her daughter’s safety, and her actions are a testament to the lengths a mother will go to protect her children.