The Shakopee Police Department was among those receiving gifts Friday from well-wishers in the aftermath of the Dallas police shootings Thursday night. (The Minnesota Star Tribune)

Arms carried cookies, coffee and handwritten cards to police departments in the Twin Cities area where crimes are reported and background checks are filed — and business didn't feel as usual Friday.

After the slaying of five officers in Dallas on Thursday night, police departments across the metro have reported acts of condolence by friends and strangers. Community members and public service employees dropped off gifts, tweeted notes of gratitude or called departments to comfort police officers, many of whom are mourning the deaths of the officers in Texas.

In Prior Lake, a man entered the lobby around 4 p.m. holding a gift and relayed respect from his family, according to records staffer Shonda Sauter.

"People are calling, thanking us, all the officers for their service," Sauter said. "Several people dropped in today with different desserts and treats for them and to offer their condolences."

A chaplain from Savage who didn't reveal his name also provided lunch and dinner for the daytime and nighttime staffs, Sauter added.

In Chaska, an American flag with a note that said "Police lives matter," coffee, balloon, cards and food were delivered to the department, according to Police Chief Scott Knight.

"Many people have taken the time to go out of their way [to] express their concern and respect for our CPD officers, as our nation tries to cope with and understand what happened over the past few days," Knight said in a statement. "We are sincerely grateful for all the support we receive year-round ... especially at such a difficult time."

Many of the gifts were delivered by strangers, and children scrawled notes on white paper. In Eagan, residents delivered doughnuts and dog treats for K-9 partners.

In Shakopee, a cookie cake was sprinkled and iced with the message "Thank you Shakopee Police Department," according to a photo on the department's Twitter account.

A few cards depicted drawings of men and women in blue uniforms.

One note, etched in purple marker, read: "I'm so sorry to hear what happened. Thanks 4 keeping the city safe! I don't know what we'd do without you!"

Natalie Daher • 612-673-1775