A young girl in Rhode Island has sought to answer the age-old question: Is Santa Claus real? The girl, whose age and name have not been disclosed, sent a partially eaten cookie and gnawed-on carrot sticks to the Cumberland Police Department to be tested for DNA.

“I took a sample of a cookie and carrots that I left for Santa and the raindeer on Christmas Eve and I was wondering if you could take a sample of DNA and see if Santa is real?” the girl wrote.

The police department, in a show of holiday spirit, accepted the evidence and forwarded it to the state’s Department of Health-Forensic Sciences unit for analysis. They are currently awaiting the results.

The young girl’s search for the truth about Santa Claus has made headlines across the nation. While many social media users have reacted with amusement, others have expressed disapproval. Some have pointed out the resources being used to process the evidence and have commented that it is a waste of taxpayer money.

Despite the controversy, the young girl’s mission has captured the hearts of many people. Some have even suggested that if the results come back negative, the police department should give the girl a special certificate or plaque proclaiming her Santa Claus detective status.

Whether or not Santa Claus actually exists, the young girl’s quest has inspired many people to believe in the magic of the holiday season. It is a reminder that some of the most important things in life cannot be measured by scientific evidence, but by the power of imagination and hope.

The Cumberland Police Department has not yet released the results of the DNA test, but the young girl’s story has spread far and wide. While it remains to be seen if Santa Claus is real, the girl’s determination and holiday spirit will live on.