Motorists pulled over by police officers in several cities around the country this holiday season got a welcome surprise. Instead of a ticket and fine for a minor traffic misdeed, they instead pocketed cash. It’s a practice that not only has lifted the spirits of recipients, but has given law enforcement officers a badly needed boost as well, officials involved with the efforts said. And that’s especially important in a time of unprecedented tensions between police and the people in their communities. Hearts warmed all over frosty Fremont, Nebraska, this December after an anonymous donor sent the city’s police department $5,000. The intention of the gift-giver was to make it so officers could hand out 50 Christmas cards, each with $100 inside, reported Nebraska Public Media. The benefactor bestowed the same gift on the community for the past several years, the outlet reported. And it’s a ritual that often brings …