Residents Invited to Sit Down for Coffee with a Cop

On Wednesday, August 5, 2015, at 8 a.m., at McDonald's, located at 12371 Perris Boulevard in Moreno Valley, officers from the Moreno Valley Police Department and community members will come together in an informal, neutral space to discuss community issues, build relationships and drink coffee. Coffee with a Cop provides an opportunity for community members to ask questions and learn more about the Department's work in Moreno Valley neighborhoods. The majority of contacts law enforcement officers have 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 aims to break down barriers and allow 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 Police Chief Joel Ontiveros. Coffee with a Cop events are generally set to occur bi-monthly. As dates for 2015 events become available, they will be posted on the MVPD webpage of the city's website and on the city's Facebook page. 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. All members of the community are invited to attend. Please contact Officer Jay Willner with questions at 951-486-6720 or email jwillner@riversidesheriff.org.