Culver City Observer -

On Tuesday, October 21, officers from the Culver City Police Department 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 is from 8:30 am to 10:30 am at Starbucks, 4114 Sepulveda Blvd. Contact Lieutenant Jason Sims with questions: (310) 253-6258.

Coffee with a Cop provides a unique opportunity for community members to ask questions and learn more about the Department's in the community.

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 not approachable on the street. Coffee with a Cop breaks down barriers and allows for relaxed, one-on-one interaction.

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 United States, as 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.