Campbelltown City police and residents join forces for Coffee with a Cop

By Luisa Cogno, The Daily Telegraph
Original article HERE

Oliver Wilson, 3, of St Helens Park, with Campbelltown City police Senior Constable Michelle Wills at Coffee with a Cop at Macarthur Square. Picture: Luisa CognoDOZENS of residents joined forces with Campbelltown City police to solve crimes, discuss concerns and form closer ties at Coffee with a Cop at Jamaica Blue, at Macarthur Square, this morning.

The casual event saw Campbelltown City police commander Detective Superintendent Wayne Benson and his team, including crime prevention and community safety officer Senior Constable David Blom, spend time chatting to residents over a cup of coffee or tea to break down barriers in a relaxed environment and without agendas or speeches.

A Coffee with a Cop event will also be held at Michel’s Patisserie, at Ingleburn, on Tuesday, May 15, from 10am.
Detective Supt Benson said at previous Coffee with a Cop events residents had asked about property crime, traffic and trail bike issues and police powers.

“So often when police interact with the community it is in trying or tragic circumstances so Coffee with a Cop is an opportunity to talk to the community in a positive and safe environment,’’ he said.

“People can raise concerns and ask questions and police can see what issues are out there.’’

Senior Constable Blom said residents had previously spoken about driving and noise concerns in their streets, including motorbike noise, as well as concerns about drugs in the community.

“Coffee with a Cop is a good opportunity to relate to people on a personal level and for residents to raise issues, there are no agendas here,’’ he said.

“If we get intelligence information we take it away so it can be investigated.’’

Camden Police Area Command also hosted Coffee with a Cop at Picton and Narellan Town Centre today.