Program offers opportunity to meet local officers, discuss community issues

On Friday, Feb. 17, officers from SUPD and Tribal Rangers 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 7:30 until 9 a.m. on Feb. 17 at Willows Cafe. Please contact Don Folsom with questions at 970-563-0246.

Coffee with a Cop provides a unique opportunity for community members to ask questions and learn more about the department’s work in tribal 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 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.

“With the success of the first Coffee with a Cop, we hope that more community members attend and feel comfortable asking questions, bringing concerns, or simply getting to know our officers,” said Chief of Police Raymond Coriz. “We enjoy interacting with our community members and partnering with them to serve our community.”

The program aims to advance the practice of community policing through improving relationships between police officers, rangers, communications technicians, animal control, community resources, victim services and community members one cup of coffee at a time.