Topeka Police Officers hear community concerns over coffee and chess

By Natalie Dattilio, WIBW
Original article HERE

Mall shoppers were able to meet the men and women behind the badge during Friday’s Coffee with a Cop event.

Topeka Police Officers were on hand at West Ridge Mall to answer questions, discuss concerns and some officers battled it out with chess. Kids were also given collectible baseball cards during the event.

TPD says they hope this brings officers closer to the community they serve.

“Its good for people to come out and talk to us over a cup of coffee in a more relaxed setting, to talk to us on a more personal level so that they feel more relaxed and willing to share their concerns with us,” Officer Derek Child said.

The Topeka Police Department hosts Coffee with a Cop several times a year at different locations throughout the city.