Coffee with a Cop held in Jonesboro

KAIT
Original article HERE

People had an opportunity Thursday to meet with Jonesboro police over a cup of joe, with supporters saying the event helps residents learn more about officers and the work they do.

The Coffee with a Cop event was held at Chick-Fil-A on Red Wolf Boulevard. A special section of the restaurant was set aside as Jonesboro police spoke with residents.

Coffee with a Cop is a nationwide event that works to make police officers more accessible to the public and helps to build trust, supporters said.

A police officer on Thursday said the event does help.

“You know most of the time when people have to deal with the police it is not a good day so this is a chance for them to come out and talk to us in person rather than look at us like we are here to solve a problem for them,” Jonesboro police Sgt. Cassie Brandon said.

A Jonesboro woman who attended the event agreed.

“The law enforcement in Jonesboro especially is very awesome and for us to get to know them all the time. It makes me feel very warm inside and very protected,” Gail Newcom said.

Brandon said having the public view them as fellow citizens help to build a stronger relationship with law enforcement that is needed in many communities across the nation.