LONDON KY—On Wednesday, October 21st from 7:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. the London Police Department (LPD) will host their first-ever “Coffee with a Cop” event at Brie’s Brews Coffee House located in downtown London. Police and community members will come together informally in a neutral space to discuss community issues and build relationships over a cup of coffee provided by the LPD. All community members are invited to attend.
Coffee with a Cop provides a unique opportunity for community members to ask questions and learn more about the department’s work in London’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 breaks down barriers and allows for a 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,” said London Police Chief Derek House. “These interactions are the foundation of community partnerships.”
Coffee with a Cop is a national initiative supported by The United States Department of Justice, Office of Community Oriented Policing Services. Similar events are being held across the U.S., as local police departments strive to make lasting connections with the communities they serve.
The program aims to advance the practice of community policing through improving relationships between police officers and community members one cup of coffee at a time.
Brie’s Brews Coffee House is located on 202 E. Fourth St. Please contact the LPD’s Public Information Officer Magen Zawko with questions: (606) 878-7004 or magenzawko@londonpd.com.