Clearlake >> Police officers from the Clearlake Police Department (CPD) 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 2:30 p.m. on March 25 at the Main Street Bar & Grill, 14084 Lakeshore Drive in Clearlake.
Coffee with a Cop provides an opportunity for residents to ask questions and learn more about the department’s work in Clearlake.
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 hope that community members will feel comfortable to ask questions, bring concerns, or simply get to know our Officers,” said CPD Chief Craig Clausen. “These interactions are the foundation of community partnerships.”
The mission of Coffee with a Cop is to break down the barriers between police officers and the residents they serve by removing agendas and allowing opportunities to ask questions, voice concerns and get to know the officers in their neighborhood.
“This is a fantastic opportunity to take time and meet with citizen’s, listen to their concerns and together find resolution,” said Lt. Tim Celli.
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.
Contact officer Mark Harden with questions: (707) 994-8251 ext. 503 or mharden@clearlakepd.org.