Impact of NYPD Officer Slayings Felt Across Nation

The killings of two officers in New York are being felt across the nation.

In Southern California there is concern over what some fear is an anti-police climate that has made the job even more dangerous than it already is.

Anaheim Police Chief Raul Quezada said events such as "Cops for Kids," at which police load toys and meals for hundreds of low-income families, show another side of police work.

"This is where we go one-on-one with the community, making a difference with the children," he said.

Over the weekend, a man who had written that he was seeking revenge for the officer-involved deaths of unarmed African Americans in Missouri and New York, killed two NYPD officers.

Some in law enforcement believe that statements made by the highest levels of government, including New York's mayor that were critical of police, may have added to the danger.

"They have to be more supportive of officers in law enforcement and their families," said Nohema Cortez, whose husband Gilbert Cortez, a state corrections K-9 officer, was killed in the line of duty two years ago.

Los Angeles County District Attorney Jackie Lacey, taking part in her own toy drive for children of crime victims, agrees.

But she says the suspect in the New York case is solely responsible for his actions.

"It's not right to point the finger of blame to a politician or someone else," she said.

Regardless, police feel targeted.

"We are all making sure we are paying close attention to each other and making sure we are safe," said LAPD Cmdr. Andrew Smith.

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