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‘Coffee with a Cop’ held at LC Senior Center
By Jessica Kirkpatrick, The Weston Democrat
Original article HERE
Local police departments are doing their part to help build better relationships between community members and law enforcement officers.
On Tuesday, the Lewis County Sheriff’s Department hosted its introductory “Coffee with a Cop.” More than two dozen people attended the event that was held at the Lewis County Senior Center.
The Lewis County Sheriff’s Department, along with the Weston City Police Department, participated in the event, and Lewis County Assessor John Breen also made a guest appearance.
The program, which began nationally in 2011, is designed to facilitate open, honest and barrier-free communication between law enforcement officers and the communities they serve.
According to Lewis County Sheriff Adam Gissy, he first learned of the trust-building initiative called “Coffee with a Cop” after reading a report on 21st Century Policing Blueprint.
“The program isn’t costly, isn’t formal, isn’t agenda-filled and isn’t stressful for either party,” Gissy said.
“The objective is to create lasting relationships for both contributors and foster an environment that welcomes open dialogue. Studies have revealed that outreach programs like ‘Coffee with a Cop’ improve public safety, in large part due to the trust factor and through conversation.”
Gissy added that he feels the Lewis County community has always been extremely supportive of all law enforcement and first responders, but it is his hope that an event like this will continue to build those relationships.
“From the national media’s perspective, the relationship between police and the public has been portrayed as mightily strained,” he said. “Lewis Countians have long embraced first responders and have been stalwart supporters of law enforcement officers. Nonetheless, I feel it’s critical to continue to construct a positive rapport with those whom we serve and vow to protect.”
According to Gissy, the plan is to host more events just like this one on a regular basis. He added that the department plans to host them in different locations throughout Lewis County to give all residents the opportunity to attend.
“It’s my intent to meet in different geographic locations throughout the county,” he said. “We welcome all to attend and are looking forward to chatting with our fellow Lewis Countians.”
Additional ‘Coffee with a Cop’ events and locations will be announced at a later date.
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