Boy With Liver Disorder Is Befriending Cops Across Essex County

ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — A 4-year-old boy diagnosed with a rare disorder is rapidly becoming a personal friend to police officers throughout Essex County.

Last weekend, the Caldwell Police Department lent Verona resident Micco LaRosa some enthusiastic support at his fundraiser for The Alagille Syndrome Alliance. LaRosa has a genetic disorder called Alagille Syndrome, which affects the liver, and occurs in about one of every 30,000 live births.

Caldwell police explained more about their newfound friendship on social media:

“Micco's parents own Banshee + Co. Hairdressing Salon in downtown Caldwell. Young Micco was diagnosed with Alagille Syndrome when he was only 5-months-old. Alagille Syndrome is a genetic disorder that primarily affects the liver. Officers Simmons, Adams, and Detective DeAngelo spent time with Micco who loves police officers. Micco is an inspiration to everyone he meets and was happy to receive donations to his cause from the officers.”

Micco’s love for cops may sound familiar to Essex County residents. When LaRosa recently fell and suffered a skull fracture, it resulted in serious complications, according to the Verona Police Department.

When word of his injury got out to Verona police, an enthusiastic group of officers paid the courageous youngster a visit at his home, bringing a K9 companion along with them.

While LaRosa has bounced back from his fall, the Verona Police Department knew that they had to show him some additional support. So last month, with the aid of some their West Orange peers, they decided to surprise him on his birthday, welcoming him and his family into VPD headquarters and swearing him in as an "officer for the day."

He even got a uniform and badge to fit the part, authorities reported.

• See related article: Verona Boy With Rare Disorder Gets Heartwarming Boost From Cops

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