Officers from the Zionsville Police Dept. will meet with community members in an informal, neutral space to discuss issues, build relationships and drink coffee.
Coffee with a Cop is scheduled for 9 a.m. Oct. 15 at McDonald’s, 50 Brendan Way. The event provides an opportunity for community members to ask questions and learn more about the department’s work in Zionsville’s neighborhoods.
The majority of contacts law enforcement has with the public happen during emergencies or emotional situations. Those situations are not always the most effective times for relationship building with the community, and some community members may feel that officers are unapproachable on the street. Coffee with a Cop aims to break down barriers for relaxed one-on-one interaction.
“We hope that community members will feel comfortable to ask questions, bring concerns, or simply get to know our officers,” ZPD Sgt. Adrian Martin stated. “These interactions are the foundation of community partnerships.”
Coffee with a Cop is a national initiative supported by The United States Dept. of Justice, Office of Community Oriented Policing Services. Similar events are being held across the country, as local police departments strive to make lasting connections with the communities they serve.
Source: Zionsville Police Dept.