Have Coffee with a Dunwoody Cop Monday

Have a question about how Dunwoody Police officers do their job or a local issue? Drop by the Starbucks at 4516 Chamblee Dunwoody Road Monday morning to chat with police.

During Coffee with a Cop on Aug. 18, officers from the Dunwoody Police Department and community members will come together in an informal, neutral space to discuss community issues, build relationships, and drink coffee, says a news release.

All community members are invited to attend. The event runs from 8 to 10 a.m.

Coffee with a Cop provides a unique opportunity for resident to ask questions and learn more about the department’s work in Dunwoody’s neighborhoods.

Most contacts law enforcement officers have with the public happen during emergencies, or emotional situations. Those situations are not always the most effective times for relationship building with the community, police say, 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 hope that community members will feel comfortable to ask questions, bring concerns, or simply get to know our officers,” said Chief Billy Grogan. “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 the country, 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.