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

The majority of the contact that 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 conversation.

“We hope that the community members will feel comfortable to ask questions, bring concerns, or simply get to know our officers,” Idaho Falls Police Chief Mark McBride said. “These interactions are the foundation of community partnerships.”

Coffee with a Cop is a national initiative supported by the United States Department of Justice, Office of Community Oriented Policing Services. The program aims to advance the practice of community policing through improving relationship between police officers and community members one cup of coffee at a time.