(MyFoxBoston.com) -- Local police stations are sending their support to New York City police while also being vigilant themselves after a gunman traveled to the city on Saturday, shooting and killing two officers who were sitting in their police cruiser.
Outside the Newton police station, flags flew at half staff Monday. The department tweeted asking anyone who hears or reads threats toward police to call 911.
The union put out an email letting members know, in part, "They're under siege, be safe and diligent and wear your vests."
"It's very troubling, I mean I think you're gonna have every nut coming out of the woodwork now trying to copy," said Richard Clements, president of the Newton Police Association. "I think it's gonna get much worse for us before it gets any better."
In Newton, six new officers were sworn in Monday. The chief says what's happening across the country is top of mind...And while they haven't made procedural changes, that could always change if need be.
"There is a conversation at roll call, we've had a heightened awareness for officer safety, and it's gonna be stressed," said Newton Police Chief Howard Mintz.
In Boston at a police promotion ceremony, Boston Mayor Marty Walsh called for respect and calm.
"The emotions are high. And I'd ask people to just tamper it down a little," he said. "I'm concerned about the safety of our police every day. I'm concerned about the safety of our firefighters every day. About the jobs they have these aren't easy jobs; these are dangerous jobs."
Boston Police Commissioner Bill Evans said his troops have had to deal with a lot of rhetoric through many protests. He says police are making sure they support each other when responding to calls.
"We've dealt with a lot of protests, we've dealt with a lot of profanity. We all have each other's back," he said.
Newton Police Association President Clements said he is urging people to put a blue light in their windows in a show of solidarity this holiday season.
FOX 25 reached out to Governor-elect Baker on the issue. His transition team chief of staff, Jim Conroy, sent this statement:
"Governor-elect Baker has immense respect for the difficult, dangerous and important work performed by our law enforcement officers every day. The recent tragic events in Ferguson and New York have threatened to erode the essential trust that needs to exist between law enforcement and the communities in which it serves. The governor-elect intends to build on the conversations now taking place between public officials, law enforcement, and community leaders to improve community policing and build a lasting trust that will make our cities safer places to live, work and raise a family.â
Cox Media Group
