California Highway Patrol, local law enforcement host Coffee with a Cop on Feb. 20

Officers from the California Highway Patrol Susanville Office, Lassen County Sheriff’s Department, Lassen County District Attorney and the Susanville Police Department will come together with community members in an informal, neutral space to discuss community issues, have coffee, learn about potential careers in law enforcement and build relationships at Coffee with a Cop held 10 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 20 at Joes Coffee Shop in Susanville. All community members are invited to attend.

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

The majority of contacts 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 officers are unapproachable on the street. Coffee with a Cop breaks down barriers and allows for a relaxed, one-on-one interaction.

“We hope community members will welcome the opportunity to ask questions, bring concerns forward, or simply get to know our officers,” said Lassen County Sheriff Lieutenant Carney. “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. Similar events are being held across the country 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.

For more information, call CHP officer Travis Music at (530) 252-1800.