Minot gets together for 2nd Annual Coffee with A Cop

By Alex Coleman, KMOT
Original article HERE

The relationship between law enforcement and the public nationwide has taken a toll in recent years.

If you swung by the Minot Barnes & Noble Friday, you may have seen some of Minot’s ‘boys in blue’ sharing a cup of coffee with members of the community as part of Coffee with a Cop.

“Some people have sat down and been here with us since the doors opened. Some just dropped by and said hello and moved along. That’s the whole point. There’s absolutely no agenda, no script or time frame. Just come down and participate as much or as little as the person would like,” says Senior Officer, Aaron Moss.

Residents can use this time with the officers to learn more about their backgrounds.

“I’m seeing them on a personal level right now. If I was out on the street or in trouble or something, I’m sure I would see a whole different side them and that’s the side I want to see when if I’m in trouble,” says Mark Turner, Minot resident.

Getting to know one other on a personal level builds trust between the police and the public.

“I think that ability to react more positively and trust we have each others’ back as the community and the law enforcement,” says Moss.

“One of things I’ve discovered is that they’re absolutely no different than myself or anyone else I know, but except when the uniform, they’re more discipline, more trained, and they’re what I’d like to have between me and the so-called bad guy,” says Turner.

Behind the badge, law enforcement is just like us.

Minot Police are looking to continue this event next year.