Coast’s two police districts host second annual Coffee with a Cop

By Richard Noone, The Daily Telegraph
Original article HERE

Brisbane Water Police District officers talking to the public during Coffee with a Cop at Coffee Emporium, Gosford. May 8, 2018RESIDENTS at Gosford and The Entrance got a free cuppa and a chance to chat with officers this morning when our two police districts hosted the annual “Coffee with a Cop” initiative.

The informal catch up is designed to strengthen relationships and build on community partnerships.

About a dozen officers were at hand at the Coffee Emporium inside the Imperial Centre where the public were invited to enjoy a free coffee and discuss any local issues important to them.

Punters canvassed a range of topics, from how many officers they see walking the beat to road safety and more, as police — ranging from Superintendent Tony Joice to general duties Constables — dropped by for a chat.

Tuggerah Lakes Police District officers meanwhile had similar conversations at the Euro Bean Café at The Entrance.

The two police districts have held “Coffee with a Cop” before but today was the second annual event held across NSW with 58 commands participating.

The initiative originated in the United States and was first adopted by Fairfield Local Area Command to foster stronger community engagement.

“The aim is for police officers and community members to come together in an informal, neutral space to discuss community issues, build relationships, and drink coffee; our shout,” NSW Police Acting Deputy Commissioner Mark Walton said.