The Champaign Police Department will be hosting Coffee with a Cop, Friday, October 20, 2017 from 7-9 AM at Biggby Coffee—401 S. Mattis Ave, Champaign. Coffee with a Cop is a unique opportunity for residents to meet with law enforcement officers in an open forum, to ask questions, raise concerns and to simply engage with one another in casual conversation.
The majority of contact that officers have with the public tends to occur during emergency or high-stress situations that may not be the most encouraging for relationship building. As well, community members may be hesitant to approach officers while they’re on duty. Coffee with a Cop helps to break down the barriers and allows dedicated time for relaxed, one-on-one interaction.
“We’re excited about the opportunity and hope that community members will feel comfortable to ask questions about their neighborhood or even inquire which team an officer is rooting for,” said Chief of Police Anthony Cobb. “This program is a positive way to truly build relationships and to strengthen the partnership between the police department and the community we serve.”
The October 20th event is the launch to a series of Coffee with a Cop meetings that CPD will host at various locations throughout Champaign. The next event is tentatively scheduled for December 5. Stay connected with Champaign Police through Facebook for future event details.
Coffee with a Cop is a nationally recognized initiative supported by The United States Department of Justice, Office of Community Oriented Policing Services. Events are held across the country, with the goal of advancing the practice of community policing. For more information, visit www.coffeewithacop.com.