Fairfield City Police Area Command is inviting media and all members of the community to join them for its monthly "Coffee with a Cop" initiative tomorrow (Tuesday 26 February 2019).
"Coffee with a Cop" is a community event designed to strengthen local relationships and build on community partnerships by breaking down any barriers between the police and the community.
This month, officers will be joined by one of the founders of the initiative, retired Sergeant Chris Cognac of the Hawthorne Police, Los Angeles, who will be sharing his perspective since its launch in Los Angeles in 2011.
Fairfield City Police Area Commander, Detective Superintendent Peter Lennon, said 'Coffee with a Cop' provides a unique opportunity for community members to ask questions and learn more about police work.
"As police officers we want to build long-lasting relationships based on trust and common interest but sometimes the first hurdle is just starting the conversation," Detective Superintendent Lennon said.
"Coffee with a Cop is a great initiative that helps foster better community policing by bringing us together in an informal, neutral space to discuss community issues.
"We are delighted that Sergeant Cognac will be joining us to share his experiences and to discuss how the program has helped foster better community policing in over 36 countries worldwide."
Coffee with a Cop has been held annually by Fairfield City Police Area Command since 2012 before becoming a monthly event, with the NSW Police Force holding annual state-wide events from 2017.
"We hope that many community members will attend and that they feel comfortable to ask questions, bring concerns, or simply get to know our officers," Detective Superintendent Lennon said.
Date: Tuesday 26 February 2019
Time: 10am-11am
Location: Neeta City Shopping Centre, Smart Street Fairfield, in the food court area.
Similar events are being held across all NSW police area commands and districts. Find your nearest Coffee with a Cop event at https://www.police.nsw.gov.au/safety_and_prevention/policing_in_the_community/coffee_with_a_cop
