Parents, Kids Bring The Love To Melrose Police Department

MELROSE, MA — Christmas is still almost two months away, but a group of local children brought a whole lot of giving to the police Thursday.

More than 15 kids and some their parents dropped off a number of snacks, drinks, gift cards and letters to the department. Everyone wanted to show support after what they said was a negative attitude toward police of late.

"People are being really rude to the police, even though they're trying to help us a lot, and that's why we're here today," said Mark, 9, who recently celebrated a birthday.

Lauren Fitzpatrick, who helped organize the event, said some police have had bottles thrown at them while working details. Her and some other parents rounded up gift cards — Fades Away Barbershop donated some of their own — and sprung for dinner for the officers over the next few nights.

"I wanted to do this because I was really bothered knowing how local law enforcement has been treated lately," she said. "There have been repercussions on them based on the negative choices of few law enforcement in the country and they're feeling that a lot here at home."

A couple officers came out to thank everyone and take some pictures with the kids.

"Wow," Chief Mike Lyle said in an email. "So many officers were humbled this afternoon by the generosity of gifts brought to station by students and their families. Thank you on behalf of all the members of the Melrose Police Department."