On March 7, 2015 officers from the Asheville Police Department 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 begins at 8:00am on March 7 at Cornerstone restaurant located at 102 Tunnel Road. Please contact Officer Ryan Justus with questions: 828-251-4044 or at [email protected]
Coffee with a Cop provides a unique opportunity for community members to ask questions and learn more about the department’s work in Asheville’s 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. Coffee with a Cop breaks down barriers and allows for a relaxed, one-on-one interaction.
“We are inviting members of the community to meet with our officers and simply have a cup of coffee with them. It is a great opportunity for a resident to ask an officer any question or express any concern they may have. If you don’t have a question or concern you are certainly welcome and invited to just come by, say hello and meet the officers that patrol your neighborhood.” said Chief Steve Belcher. “
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 the county, as local police departments 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.