April 26, 2024

NPD, Jasper County Sheriff’s to host Coffee with a Cop on Saturday

Program offers opportunity to meet officers and discuss community issues

By Newton Daily

Lt. Rob Burdess speaks with Chuck Wagoner, of Newton, at the May 9 Coffee with a Cop. The third Coffee with a Cop event will begin at 9 a.m. Saturday at the Hy-Vee Market Café. (Pam Rodgers)

Officers from Newton Police Department and Jasper County Sheriff’s Office will come together with community members in an informal setting to discuss issues, build relationships and drink coffee.

All county citizens are invited to attend. The event begins at 9 a.m. on Saturday at Hy-Vee Market Café, 1501 First Ave. E. Contact Acting Police Chief Wes Breckenridge with questions at 641-791-0850.

The Coffee with a Cop provides a unique opportunity for community members to ask questions and learn more about their law enforcement agencies.

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 look forward to having discussions with community members and forging lasting relationships,” Breckenridge said. “These interactions are the foundation of community partnerships.”

The program aims to advance the practice of community policing through improving relationships between law enforcement and community members one cup of coffee at a time.