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Boston Police Thank Protester For 'We Don't Hate You' Note

BOSTON (CBS) -- Boston police are thanking a demonstrator who handed out flowers and notes to officers during Saturday's protests.

Twenty-three people were arrested during the demonstrations over the police-involved deaths of Michael Brown in Ferguson, Missouri and Eric Garner in New York. But police said they wanted to thank one woman giving officers white carnations with notes that read "We don't hate you."

"It meant a lot. It really did," Police Superintendent Robert Merner said in a statement. "We respect the people out here more than they know."

Merner was one of the officers who "gladly accepted and proudly wore the flower," police said.

"We respect their right to gather and voice their opinions," Merner said. "Obviously, we're here to make sure they do it in a safe, respectful and responsible manner. But – we don't dislike anybody and it was nice to see that the feelings are mutual."

officer note flower
A Boston police officer wearing a note reading "We Don't Hate You" from a protester. (Photo credit Boston police)

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