Bridging the Gap: Hawai'i Police Department Invites Community for Coffee and Conversation

In a proactive effort to strengthen community ties, the Hawai'i Police Department's Community Policing Sections are hosting the 9th annual National Coffee With a Cop Day across the island. This initiative aims to foster open dialogue and understanding between law enforcement and the people they serve.

Connecting Cops and Community, One Cup at a Time

Fostering Meaningful Interactions

The Hawai'i Police Department's Community Policing Sections are taking a unique approach to building stronger bonds with their communities. By organizing the 9th annual National Coffee With a Cop Day, they are creating opportunities for residents to engage with local law enforcement in a relaxed and informal setting. These gatherings are designed to bridge the gap between the community and the officers who protect them, allowing for open and honest conversations.During the event, community members will have the chance to sit down with police officers over a cup of coffee and simply "talk story." There are no agendas or speeches, just a chance for residents to get to know the men and women in uniform on a more personal level. Conversations can range from sharing personal anecdotes to discussing neighborhood concerns or even addressing community issues."We really enjoy the opportunity to meet with the public at these types of events because it provides us with insights into community concerns," said Hilo Community Policing Section's Lt. William Derr. "It's a chance for us to listen and learn, and for the community to see us as approachable individuals, not just as authority figures."

Connecting Across the Island

The Coffee With a Cop Day events will be held in five different districts across the island, ensuring that residents from various communities have the chance to participate. From Hilo to Kona, the Hawai'i Police Department is making a concerted effort to reach out and engage with people from all walks of life.In Hilo, the event will take place at the Starbucks near Prince Kuhio Plaza, where community members can connect with Lt. William Derr and his team from 8 to 10 a.m. Pāhoa residents can join the Puna Community Policing Officer Chad Sato at the Kohala Coffee Co. from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m.Honoka'a will host the event at the Tex Drive In, where Hāmākua Community Policing Officer Joseph Rocha will be available from 7 to 9 a.m. Waimea residents can visit the Starbucks at the Parker Ranch Center from 7 to 10 a.m. to connect with South Kohala Community Policing Officer Justin Cabanting.In Kona, the Kona Coffee & Tea Co. at the Kona Coast Shopping Center will be the gathering spot, where Kona Community Policing Officer Dwayne Sluss will be on hand from 8 to 10 a.m.

A Nationwide Initiative

National Coffee With a Cop Day is a nationwide initiative that began in 2016 as part of National Community Policing Week. The event is now observed annually on the first Wednesday of October, providing a platform for law enforcement agencies across the country to engage with their local communities.By participating in this initiative, the Hawai'i Police Department is demonstrating its commitment to fostering stronger relationships with the people it serves. These informal gatherings offer a unique opportunity for residents to connect with the officers who patrol their neighborhoods, breaking down barriers and promoting mutual understanding."National Coffee With a Cop Day is an important event that allows us to build trust and strengthen our bonds with the community," said Lt. Derr. "It's a chance for us to show that we're not just here to enforce the law, but to be active and engaged members of the community."As the Hawai'i Police Department prepares for this year's Coffee With a Cop Day, they are hopeful that residents will take advantage of this opportunity to connect with their local law enforcement. By coming together over a cup of coffee, the community and the police can work towards a shared goal of creating a safer, more vibrant Hawai'i.