“Coffee with a Cop”

The City of Gaithersburg Police Department will host “Coffee with a Cop” on Oct. 29 starting at 7 a.m. at the Kentlands Chick-fil-A located at 104 Main Street. Officers from the Gaithersburg Police Department will be on hand to meet with members of the community in an informal, neutral space to discuss community issues and build relationships over a cup of coffee. All community members are invited to attend.

The majority of contact between law enforcement and the public occurs during emergencies or emotional situations, which are not always the most effective times for relationship building with the community. Some residents may also feel that officers are unapproachable on the street. Coffee with a Cop breaks down barriers and allows for a relaxed, one-on-one interaction. The program provides a unique opportunity for citizens to ask questions and learn more about the department’s work in City neighborhoods.

“We hope that community members will feel comfortable to ask questions, bring concerns, or simply get to know our officers,” said Chief Mark Sroka. “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 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.

For more information, please contact Officer Dan Lane at 301.258.6168 or e-mail at dlane@gaithersburgmd.gov .

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