Cleveland Police officials are alerting their officers about the threat of an ambush attack, a source confirms to newsnet5.com.
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Police are looking out for two threats, according to the source:
1.) Juveniles on dirt bikes pulling up to police cruisers and opening fire
2.) Suspects kicking police cruiser doors to initiate a chase, then ambushing officers
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"It doesn't come from the division very often so it is credible," said Cleveland Police Patrolmen's Association President Steve Loomis.
Loomis is telling officers to be "excruciatingly" aware of their surroundings at all times and continue to back each other up. "And do not hesitate to defend yourselves and the lives of citizens out there, do not hesitate for one micro-second," he said. "If you're life is in danger than you do what you need to do to go home."
In the face of this threat and the recent murders of police officers nationally Loomis said many police officers feel they're out there on their own.
"No political leaders, no faith based leadership, no self appointed leadership, no civic leadership. everybody's keeping their mouth shut," he said.
It also comes at a time when efforts are underway to boost community policing which he said his officers are behind but these threats make it tough.
"Imagine how suspicious they're going to be of just general citizens walking up to them now because you don't know who gots the gun and who wants to do you harm, you have no way of knowing that."
The police warning said the threats originated from Harvard Wine & Grille, a restaurant at E. 142nd & Harvard.
Owner Claude Carson was floored by the association and said he had no idea from where it came. Carson proudly showed off the restaurant and the money he's invested in the neighborhood where he was raised.
He believed it stemmed from something someone thought they heard. "Someone overheard a conversation of some young guys sitting having dinner or whatever plotting to do something to law enforcement."
He said is a strong supporter of police and investor in the community.
"We're one of the few, we've been here and we're going to remain here," Carson said.
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