Published February 11 2015
On Wednesday, February 18, Bellevue police officers 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 a.m., at Top Pot Doughnuts, 10600 NE Ninth Pl. Please contact Detective Amanda Jensen with questions (425-452-6915 or CrimePrevention@bellevuewa.gov).
"Coffee with a Cop" provides a unique opportunity for residents to ask questions and learn more about the department's work in Bellevue'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, and some community members may feel that officers are unapproachable on the street. "Coffee with a Cop" allows for a relaxed, one-on-one interaction.
"Our hope in implementing this program is to give every resident and every officer the chance to have just a simple conversation over a cup of coffee, which wasn't instigated by a 911 call," said Police Lt. Lisa Patricelli.
"Coffee with a Cop" is a national initiative supported by the U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Community-Oriented Policing Services. 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.