Parkes police officers have coffee with locals

Officers from Central West Police District, Parkes Police Station and community members will come together in an informal, neutral space to discuss community issues, build relationships, and drink coffee.

All community members are invited to attend the event on Tuesday May 8.

It is being held at several locations within the district throughout the day.

The Parkes event will be held at Wholesome Blend on the corner of Clarinda and Bushman Streets, Parkes, between 10:30am and 11:30am.

Please contact Parkes Police on 02 6862 9999 with any questions.

Coffee with a Cop provides a unique opportunity for community members to ask questions and learn more about the Police work in Central West Police District neighborhoods.

The majority of contacts law enforcement has with the public happen during emergencies, or emotional situations.

Those situations are not always the most effective times for relationship building with the community, and some community members may feel that officers are unapproachable on the street.

Central West Police District Superintendent Chris Taylor said Coffee with a Cop breaks down barriers and allows for a relaxed, one-on-one interaction.

“We hope that community members will feel comfortable enough to ask questions, bring concerns, or simply get to know our local Parkes Police officers,” Superintendent Taylor said.

“These interactions are the foundation of community partnerships.”

Coffee with a Cop is a national initiative supported by The United States Department of Justice, Office of Community Oriented Policing Services.

Similar events are being held across NSW, as local police commands strive to make lasting connections with the communities they serve. The program aims to advance the practice of community policing through improving relationships between police officers and community members one cup of coffee at a time.

Chief Inspector David Cooper said last year’s local Coffee with a Cop event was highly successful.

“The flow of residents stopping by to say hello was constant. It’s not scripted, there are no agendas, speeches or lectures. It’s a relaxed atmosphere,” he said.