The Haines Borough Police Department will host “Coffee with a Cop” on Saturday, a program to build relationships between officers and the community.
Police officers will be at Mountain Market on Saturday at noon to have coffee and casual conversation with community members.
“Coffee with a Cop provides a unique opportunity for community members to ask questions and learn more about the department’s work in Haines’ neighborhoods,” according to a police press release.
The press release said that most police interactions with the community are during emergencies or emotional situations that don’t allow for relationship building. Also, some people may feel that police officers are “unapproachable on the street.” The press release said this program “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,” said police chief Heath Scott. “These interactions are the foundation of community partnerships.”
“Coffee with Cop” is a nationwide initiative supp