Local residents celebrate Thank a Police Officer Day despite deadly manhunt
By Cristen Manion, Multi Media Producer - email
CANADENSIS, Pa. - In the midst of a dangerous manhunt, local residents celebrated "Thank A Police Officer Day" Saturday.
The recent ambush of a Pennsylvania State Troopers barracks left police searching for Eric Frein, 31, who is accused of killing one officer and wounding another.
Citizens in local communities took time to thank policemen on the national day to show gratitude to officers who often do a thankless job.
Locally, many folks say they recognize the work police do to help keep them and the community safe.
Brianna Stefansky, from Shapsville, PA, said, "We don't know the danger they go through on a daily basis and what they put their lives on the line for, so everyone should give them a thanks, and not judge them or criticize them for the way they handle things."
In Warren, a recent drug bust highlighted the dangers police must deal with, including crimes involving shoot outs taking place involving more firepower.
Other area police departments say they also face dangerous calls on a regular basis.
Joe Lofaro from Brookfield said, "Parents should teach their children to respect police. They buried a cop the other day from PA, it's disgusting. Why shoot someone who is innocent, who has family, just because they don't like cops? It should be the opposite- police are here to protect people."
"I think cops should be respected. They should be thanked for what they do. They do have a very risky job," said Lofaro.
Meanwhile, communities in Pennsylvania remain on edge as they move back in to their homes.
Police closed off a community for two nights in a row in order to search for Frein, who was allegedly living with his parents.
