Community shows support for police officers

After recent attacks on law enforcement and civilians in Louisiana, Minnesota, Dallas, and Michigan, the community is showing support for local police officers.

Bike rides, memorials, and even free haircuts have been organized in order to bridge the gap between law enforcement and the citizens they protect.

A salon in Lockport welcomed officers from all around to get a free haircut.

"We know that you guys were put here to protect and to serve," said Rodney Williams, owner of salon ImagoDei. "Just because there may be a few bad apples that take it to their heads, we're not going to stand and make you accountable for their actions. We know you protect and serve everyday when we call you guys so we wanted to show our appreciation."

Six officers went in the salon, and thanked Williams for his nice gesture.

"Citizens in Lockport going out of their way to do something like this for the police... it really builds our relationship up," said recruit police officer Adam Szwartz. "It really helps out the whole community policing aspect. It just shows that police and the community are coming closer together."

More is being done to bring them together. There will be a memorial Tuesday afternoon for all of those who lost their lives to violence over the past few weeks.

"One thing that all of the movements have in common is that we are all mourning the passing of the dead," said Common Council President Darius Pridgen. "It is about bringing people together so that we can feel each others pain and then work together for the good and the gain of not only the city of Buffalo, but for our entire country." 

Police are also working closely with council members to organize a bike ride this Saturday to promote unity throughout the region.

"We are really big on community," said C District Chief, Barbara Lark. "We want to take this opportunity to work with our community. All of our hearts are heavy with the recent incidents but this is a positive initiative."

The Unity Bike Ride is set for this Saturday at Martin Luther King Jr. Park. Buffalo Police will be in attendance to help ensure the event is safe.