McDonald’s and the Martin County Sheriff’s Office are inviting community members to Coffee with a Cop.  The informal events, hosted by local McDonald’s in July and August, aim to help build relationships between officers and the communities they serve.  (See locations, dates and time below.)

Coffee with a Cop provides an opportunity for community members to ask questions and learn more about the department’s work in their neighborhoods. It breaks down barriers and allows for relaxed, one-on-one interaction, with no speeches or agenda. That’s important since contact with law enforcement typically happens during an emergency, and some community members may be reluctant to approach officers on the street.

“We encourage community members to stop by, get to know their local officers, and enjoy a McCafé® coffee as our treat,” said Ricky Wade, one of the Martin County McDonald’s owner operators participating in the program. “We want guests to feel comfortable asking questions or talking about concerns in a relaxed, convenient setting.”

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 held across the Palm Beach and the Treasure Coast, as local law enforcement 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 officers and community members, one cup of coffee at a time.