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Central Indiana officers cope with Dallas ambush

LAWRENCE, Ind (WISH) – The ambush in Dallas is creating uneasiness for some central Indiana officers, who are determined to move forward.

This was the case for Lawrence Police Department Officer Dustin VanTreese Friday as he nabbed speeders.

“I’m not going to lie to you, if you want me to be 100 percent honest, today is the first time in a long time that I have second thoughts about putting on my uniform and coming to work today,” VanTreese said.

After working in law enforcement for nearly a decade, the officer struggled with what happened in Dallas.

“What really hurt the most is, I’m sitting there and I’m holding a 4-week-old baby, my child, I’m holding in my hands, and I’m feeding him, and I’m worried is his dad not going to come home today,” VanTreese said.

Following the Texas ambush, departments in central Indiana are on alert. “The traffic stop that I might take part of, is that person going to try to copycat?” VanTreese asked. “I don’t know. If I get dispatched to a run, is this run going to be set up?”

Putting fear aside, he decided to focus on the good. He didn’t only target speeders, but helped motorists in need. From pushing cars to giving warnings, VanTreese received the same message: thanks.

“Just be careful merging back into traffic, and have a safe day,” VanTreese said to a motorist. “OK, thank you,” the driver responded.

Saying “thank you” can go a long way to bringing comfort to those who normally are the ones providing it.

“I think officers need to hear that every single day,” VanTreese said.

While Lawrence officers still rode solo, some departments made changes. In Fishers, officers ride in pairs.

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