OC Sheriff’s Office to host Coffee with a Cop on May 19

On May 19, officers from the Oconee County Sheriff’s Office and community members come together in an informal, neutral space to discuss community issues, build relationships, and drink coffee. Everyone is invited to attend the event at 7pm on May 19 at The Westminster Depot, 135 East Main Street in Westminster. “Coffee with a Cop provides a unique opportunity for community members to ask questions and learn more about the department’s work in Oconee County 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,” said Oconee County Sheriff’s Office Public Information Officer Jimmy Watt. Coffee with a Cop breaks down barriers and allows for a relaxed, one-on-one interaction. “We hope that community members will feel comfortable to ask questions, bring concerns, or simply get to know our officers. These interactions are the foundation of community partnerships,” said Oconee County Sheriff Mike Crenshaw. 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 county, as local 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.