The Salisbury Police Department will host Coffee with a Cop from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wed. Oct. 3, at Koco Java, 329 N. Main Street.
Community members are invited to join police officers in an informal, neutral space to learn more about the department’s work in Salisbury’s neighborhoods, discuss community issues, build relationships and drink coffee. The event provides an opportunity to showcase another side to law enforcement and to build important trusting relationships which are vital to improving the quality of life for everyone in the community.
“Coffee with a Cop is all about the community,” said Police Chief Jerry Stokes. “SPD is committed to delivering the highest level of service to all those that live, work or visit Salisbury. This event will offer an opportunity for residents and police officers to continue developing and maintaining strong relationships.”
The majority of contacts law enforcement has with the public happen during emergencies situations. Those situations are not always the most effective times for relationship-building, and some community members may feel that officers are unapproachable on the street. Coffee with a Cop allows for a relaxed, one-on-one interaction.
“Although community members will dictate what we talk about, our officers are prepared to engage in casual conversation about football, the weather and why Salisbury is a great place to live and work. We teach our officers that to build relationships it takes getting out the car and talking to residents – even if that’s in a coffee shop,” said Chief Stokes.